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 His theory is that while the opportunity in the digital space is booming, there is an industry shortage of skilled talent to capitalize. Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 29 Oct. 2025 As in other seasons that featured wealthy Americans vacationing in idyllic resorts and mingling with local characters, Season 4 will likely showcase some French talent alongside American actors. Elsa Keslassy, Variety, 29 Oct. 2025 Give them the opportunities so that their talents can really shine. Hannah Dailey, Billboard, 29 Oct. 2025 Industry The Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, PIF, and its subsidiary ALAT launched the Human Capability Initiative in Advanced Manufacturing to train Saudi talent in technical skills for industrial and mining sectors. Manal Albarakati, semafor.com, 29 Oct. 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
  • Performing stand-up since the age of 15, Nasso first discovered his knack for impressions while mimicking SpongeBob and Shrek characters as a mustachioed, 160-pound 10-year-old boy.
    Matt Grobar, Deadline, 29 Oct. 2025
  • Leaning on Park’s knack for storytelling, the exhibit includes six installations inspired by Korean folklore and the obangsaek (the traditional Korean color spectrum) of blue, red, yellow, white, and black.
    Rachel Chang, Travel + Leisure, 29 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Some gifts come wrapped in ribbon or a bow, but for Pam Brodsky, the latest birthday present from her son included Champagne, mimosas, and hot towels.
    Chris Dong, Travel + Leisure, 29 Oct. 2025
  • Urban was moved to tears by a birthday gift that carried a message of hope and healing.
    Stephanie Giang-Paunon, FOXNews.com, 29 Oct. 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 5 Nov. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on talent

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