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 Netflix launched in Poland in 2016 and quickly realized the territory – a gateway to CEE with a hefty talent base and a population of nearly 40 million – was a crucial one. Max Goldbart, Deadline, 5 Nov. 2025 It should be noted that King’s podcast was highly successful and a regular conversation starter years before bringing his talents to the network. Jessica Bennett, VIBE.com, 5 Nov. 2025 The national entertainment group Knitting Factory Entertainment handles talent-buying duties, according to the release. Claudia Levens, jsonline.com, 5 Nov. 2025 Of course, the awards will also have some very recognizable honorees and guests, alongside the stable of Fox News talent. Alex Weprin, HollywoodReporter, 5 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for talent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for talent
Noun
  • Mount’s defensive aptitude proved important in keeping United compact throughout, regularly dropping into vacant spaces to slow down any nascent attacks.
    Carl Anka, New York Times, 19 Oct. 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
  • Their knack for samples, melodies, and sculpting moments of bliss is intoxicating.
    Kieran Press-Reynolds, Pitchfork, 6 Nov. 2025
  • The firm also has a knack for knowing when to bring in new luxury retail tenants and remove those losing relevance.
    David Moin, Footwear News, 6 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • From a gift of Elizabeth Taylor’s ring, bestowed on Allura, by her cheating younger husband, to $40 million worth of trinkets that Liberty helps salvage from her Upper East Side client wanting a divorce.
    Alejandra Gularte, Vulture, 5 Nov. 2025
  • For small businesses, simplicity wins—a clear offer like ‘buy one, gift one’ or a free consult lowers the barrier for first-time buyers and gives them a reason to pick you over a big-box store.
    Ashley Lutz, Fortune, 5 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • This style is sleek enough for the minimalist, while keeping that subtle, bohemian flair.
    Cortne Bonilla, Vogue, 24 Oct. 2025
  • The experience injects Italian flair into the formal British ceremony.
    Kathryn Streeter, USA Today, 24 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Talent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/talent. Accessed 8 Nov. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on talent

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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