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 While placing local productions in the market is challenging, a new generation of talent is emerging. John Hopewell, Variety, 16 Feb. 2025 Perhaps even more thrilling than the actual musical talent on display was the comedic force brought to bear by Andy Samberg and The Lonely Island, as well as Will Ferrell and Ana Gasteyer reprising their musical educators Bobbi and Marty Mohan-Culp. Harrison Richlin, IndieWire, 16 Feb. 2025 If Prince leaves, the Dolphins receiver coach should be somewhat of a hot commodity due to the talent at the position. C. Isaiah Smalls Ii, Miami Herald, 16 Feb. 2025 The show sees the protagonist grasp fame and then so much more, as his talent and ambitions attract the attention of renowned and powerful politicians, who use him as a spy for France. Max Goldbart, Deadline, 5 Feb. 2025 See all Example Sentences for talent 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for talent
Noun
  • In 1966, at the height of the Vietnam War, Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara instituted Project 100,000, in which recruits whose aptitude had been determined to be too low to serve in the military would be admitted and sent to fight.
    Dexter Filkins, The New Yorker, 3 Feb. 2025
  • But the aptitude, not to mention attitude, starts with the teaching and tone set by a one-of-a-kind force.
    Vahe Gregorian, Kansas City Star, 2 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • White also has a knack for assembling fantastic casts, and he’s done it again here, with Posey stealing scenes and making memes as proudly old-fashioned matriarch Victoria, who pairs an airy superiority with a taste for prescription pills.
    Dave Nemetz, TVLine, 13 Feb. 2025
  • Ken had a knack for bringing joy and laughter to any gathering.
    Contributed Content, Twin Cities, 7 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • Through the grace of God, everyone has specific gifts and talents.
    Gary Franks, Hartford Courant, 14 Feb. 2025
  • Tattoo The Philadelphia Eagles' offensive linemen received a very special gift from star running back Saquon Barkley.
    Josh Hammer, Newsweek, 14 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • Its cross-cultural world-building—etched, with shabbily retro flair, in boxy frames of grainy 16-mm.
    Justin Chang, The New Yorker, 10 Feb. 2025
  • In sync with the company’s aesthetic, the interior concept blends sophisticated, essential lines with a retro flair.
    Sandra Salibian, WWD, 7 Feb. 2025

Thesaurus Entries Near talent

Cite this Entry

“Talent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/talent. Accessed 21 Feb. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on talent

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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