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 Both women have also released music of their own, further showcasing the depth of talent in the family. Victoria Uwumarogie, Essence, 29 Apr. 2025 And while there’s some individual talent throughout the roster, the team hasn’t won anything with this core. Matthew Fairburn, New York Times, 19 Apr. 2025 Still, she's come to terms with the fact that given her talent and aspirations, fame—and selfies—are always going to be part of the job. Jessica Radloff, Glamour, 18 Apr. 2025 Nonetheless, because of her intelligence, her artistic talent, and her drive, Yuskavage won scholarships to the Tyler School of Art and Architecture at Temple University in Philadelphia and then to Yale University’s School of Art. Tom Teicholz, Forbes.com, 18 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for talent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for talent
Noun
  • However, regardless of his aptitude for the sport, Agassi is unlikely to be pursuing full-time pro status anytime soon.
    Amy Woodyatt, CNN Money, 1 May 2025
  • Prior to his seventh birthday, Prince Louis seemingly showed his own aptitude for photography.
    Julia Teti, Footwear News, 23 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • So often during their rise to becoming one of the NHL’s top teams during the past few years, the Florida Panthers have shown a knack for rallying late.
    Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 29 Apr. 2025
  • Rakestraw was excellent in training camp last year, showing a knack for the ball, sticky coverage and physicality in the run game.
    Colton Pouncy, New York Times, 28 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • But Ed’s gift is like a metaphor for what’s happening in the world.
    John Hopewell, Variety, 27 Apr. 2025
  • His fourth-round projection stems from the ability to channel his athletic gifts into production.
    Ben Standig, New York Times, 26 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Wendy's has introduced a new menu item with Southern flair: the Cajun Crunch Chicken Sandwich.
    Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 24 Apr. 2025
  • Kinnear plays The Warden, the boss at Camp Yucca, with a flair for manipulation and getting the upper hand on his campers.
    Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 22 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Talent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/talent. Accessed 6 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on talent

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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