Definition of talentnext

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 And while talent, crews and infrastructure remain a draw, tax credits, currency savings and government rebates are the real superpower. Etan Vlessing, HollywoodReporter, 17 May 2026 Ferrell was an ideal closer for Season 51, which has largely been about developing relatively new talent in the cast, including rising stars Ashley Padilla, Jeremy Culhane and Marcello Hernández. Omar L. Gallaga, Los Angeles Times, 17 May 2026 Unifrance’s 10 to Watch initiative, launched in 2014, recognizes rising French film talent — and the org works to boost their visibility beyond France. Ben Croll, Variety, 17 May 2026 The competitive pressure has already become an issue for Samsung’s talent. Catherina Gioino, Fortune, 17 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for talent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for talent
Noun
  • Malo Gusto is athletically capable of being the Frimpong at Chelsea, but has not demonstrated the same level of aptitude in front of goal.
    Liam Twomey, New York Times, 17 May 2026
  • For this class, the premise is that your purpose in life lies to the intersection of your values, your aptitudes and your interests.
    Dana Taylor, USA Today, 6 May 2026
Noun
  • Besides, for a story so reliant on crazy plot swings, Maximum Pleasure Guaranteed demonstrates an impressive knack for world- and character-building.
    Angie Han, HollywoodReporter, 20 May 2026
  • Frank's knack for constituent services was well known throughout the district, with some folks around these parts boasting about how they had been helped out by Barney - no last name necessary.
    Jon Keller, CBS News, 20 May 2026
Noun
  • As previously noted, one of the gifts of Russian greats that Saunders most celebrates is their way of locating complex truths in the stuff of ordinary lives—their towns and farms, and their families, their servants; their animals.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 20 May 2026
  • Doing it for the first time is always a celebration and doing it at Critics’ Week is an immense gift because of the care the film receives from the moment it is invited.
    Roberto Prieto, Variety, 19 May 2026
Noun
  • Right on the beach is Leon’s at Meads Bay, serving Caribbean classics with South Asian flair, and there’s live music on the weekends.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 16 May 2026
  • His flair, determination and unmistakable style of play eventually turn him into a crowd favorite and multi-generational tennis legend.
    Emiliano de Pablos, Variety, 14 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Talent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/talent. Accessed 23 May. 2026.

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