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 With global platforms, such as Netflix, Prime Video and HBO Max basing their productions in the city, Madrid has become a truly international ecosystem where national and international talent converge. Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 1 Oct. 2025 The 28-year-old Kaprizov is a remarkable, dynamic talent, tied for fourth in goals per game and sixth in points per game over the last four seasons. James Mirtle, New York Times, 1 Oct. 2025 The Smashing Machine traces three years in Kerr’s career, when his talents had begun to wane but his instincts still pushed him to focus on numbing the pain of his wounds. Shirley Li, The Atlantic, 20 Sep. 2025 This team still has enough talent to make a run in the NFC, but that hinges on whether or not the offensive line is going to protect whoever is quarterback. Mark Kern, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for talent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for talent
Noun
  • Bo showed the temperament needed and the aptitude to become a therapy dog.
    Craig Shoup, Nashville Tennessean, 28 Sep. 2025
  • As a child, Infiniti showed an interest in and an aptitude for performing.
    Seija Rankin, HollywoodReporter, 26 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • His knack for ventriloquism combined with his spot-on singing impressions wowed viewers, resulting in Fator earning the grand prize.
    Skyler Caruso, PEOPLE, 25 Sep. 2025
  • The comparison comes from the way the 5-foot-9, 195 pound receiver has a knack for running through tackles, producing yards after contact.
    Omar Kelly, Miami Herald, 24 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Well, there was a real gift from the writers as far as that monologue was concerned.
    Katie Campione, Deadline, 1 Oct. 2025
  • Take a look at your holiday gift wrap, gift bags, bows, and ribbons.
    Amy Panos, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Blending style with substance can be a difficult balance to strike, and Kendra Scott does it with Texas flair.
    Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 27 Sep. 2025
  • There is a certain something about an outsized pair of shades that gives a larger-than-life flair to the wearer.
    Abbey Hudetz, Travel + Leisure, 27 Sep. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Talent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/talent. Accessed 2 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on talent

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!