Words / A2

uh-BIL-uh-tee/əˈbɪləti/

Ability is the skill or power that lets you do something. It is a noun: she has the ability to cook. The related adjective is able (she is able to cook). At A2 you will hear it with of and to: the ability to + verb. Talent is a natural ability; a skill is usually learned.

Meaning

The power or skill to do something.

Examples

• “She has a natural ability to make people laugh.”
• “He has the ability to stay calm.”
• “Language ability grows with practice.”

Good to know

ability to + verb. Adjective: able. Noun: ability.

Near in meaning

skill, talent

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