Synonym Chooser

How does the noun talent differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of talent are aptitude, bent, faculty, genius, gift, and knack. While all these words mean "a special ability for doing something," talent suggests a marked natural ability that needs to be developed.

has enough talent to succeed

In what contexts can aptitude take the place of talent?

In some situations, the words aptitude and talent are roughly equivalent. However, aptitude implies a natural liking for some activity and the likelihood of success in it.

a mechanical aptitude

How are the words bent and aptitude related as synonyms of talent?

Bent is nearly equal to aptitude but it stresses inclination perhaps more than specific ability.

a family with an artistic bent

When might faculty be a better fit than talent?

The synonyms faculty and talent are sometimes interchangeable, but faculty applies to an innate or less often acquired ability for a particular accomplishment or function.

a faculty for remembering names

When could genius be used to replace talent?

The words genius and talent can be used in similar contexts, but genius suggests impressive inborn creative ability.

has no great genius for poetry

Where would gift be a reasonable alternative to talent?

The words gift and talent are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, gift often implies special favor by God or nature.

the gift of singing beautifully

When can knack be used instead of talent?

While in some cases nearly identical to talent, knack implies a comparatively minor but special ability making for ease and dexterity in performance.

the knack of getting along

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of talent The talent who performed at the Riyadh Comedy Festival were widely criticized on social media by the likes of Marc Maron, David Cross, Zach Woods and other comedians. Zack Sharf, Variety, 8 Oct. 2025 His talent, relatability, and empathy were all still very much on show, leaving an indelible, lasting impression on his co-stars that was ultimately bigger and more enduring than the film itself. Simon Bland, IndieWire, 8 Oct. 2025 Initiated by the Fashion Commission under the Ministry of Culture, Riyadh Fashion Week plays a key role in driving the development of the local fashion ecosystem while aiming to position Saudi Arabia as a global destination for design, talent and cultural innovation. Ritu Upadhyay, Footwear News, 8 Oct. 2025 Thanks to your talent, dedication and teamwork, our studio has achieved a milestone that hasn’t been achieved since 2019 – surpassing $4 billion at the global box office with just 11 films. Anthony D'alessandro, Deadline, 8 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for talent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for talent
Noun
  • Cootes also has demonstrated some solid aptitude in the faceoff circle.
    Thomas Drance, New York Times, 29 Sep. 2025
  • Her aptitude was unavoidable at the Fendi show, where top models holding desirable handbags, styled with joyful knits, eye-catching dresses and sporty separates, strutted past guests, including actors Hilary Duff, Naomi Watts and Bang Chan of the South Korean boy band Stray Kids.
    Kati Chitrakorn, CNN Money, 29 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • That's not the end of her offensive output, though, as her knack for getting to the rim makes her one of the most dangerous drive-and-kick playmakers in the league.
    Devin Robertson, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Oct. 2025
  • Schiffmann has always had a knack for spectacle.
    Jordan Blum, Fortune, 3 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Between travel, accommodations, attire and gifts, the average cost per wedding guest in 2024 was $610, according to The Knot.
    Ana Teresa Solá, CNBC, 8 Oct. 2025
  • And with the holidays right around the corner, keep in mind that a sweet-smelling scented candle gift makes a lovely present for just about anyone on your list—from a coworker to your votive-loving mom.
    Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 8 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Brazil had lost the flair and spirit that had taken them to previous success.
    Michael Cox, New York Times, 5 Oct. 2025
  • For a touch of Western flair, Buckle & Belle Boutique features stylish fashion items and even has a fun make-your-own trucker hat bar.
    Erin Gifford, Southern Living, 3 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Talent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/talent. Accessed 9 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on talent

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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