ability
pronunciation
How to pronounce ability in British English:
UK [əˈbɪləti]
How to pronounce ability in American English:
US [əˈbɪləti]
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- Noun:
- the quality of being able to perform; a quality that permits or facilitates achievement or accomplishment
- possession of the qualities (especially mental qualities) required to do something or get something done
Word Origin
- ability (n.)
- late 14c., from Old French ableté "expert at handling (something)," from Latin habilitatem (nominative habilitas) "aptitude," noun of quality from habilis "easy to manage, handy" (see able). One case where a Latin silent -h- failed to make a return in English (despite efforts of 16c.-17c. scholars); see H.
Synonym
Antonym
Example
- 1. That could constrain its ability to act .
- 2. Words have the ability to build up or tear down .
- 3. We shared their joys and their tears , and we marveled at their ability .
- 4. So our mental body maps seem to reflect our ability to feel .
- 5. Ask any money manager : japan still has an amazing ability to disappoint .