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 Scholarships, collegiate Esports programs and corporate sponsorships are fostering a new generation of talent, while fans worldwide celebrate the skill, strategy and camaraderie that make Esports unique. Adam Rumanek, Rolling Stone, 13 Mar. 2025 Aaron Rodgers has a controversial personality, but from a talent perspective at least, would be a good mentor for a young quarterback. Raja Krishnamoorthi, Newsweek, 13 Mar. 2025 Although Colleyville Heritage has proven talent, it’s been a tough task to replace the highly productive 2024 senior class. Charles Baggarly, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 12 Mar. 2025 Crittendon is one headliner of many this season in Colorado high school girls basketball, which is in the middle of a golden age in terms of high-level talent. Kyle Newman, The Denver Post, 12 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for talent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for talent
Noun
  • This is different from notions of strengths and weaknesses, personality, aptitude or things like that.
    Michael B. Horn, Forbes, 9 Mar. 2025
  • So having that mental aptitude to learn and pick up schemes could help a good and creative coach get a ton out of him.
    Pat Leonard, New York Daily News, 27 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • On The Boys, Jack has a knack for barely reacting to all the horrifying sights his character encounters on a regular basis.
    Brian Davids, The Hollywood Reporter, 13 Mar. 2025
  • His fame-making Oprah appearance Unlike many academics, Oz felt comfortable in the spotlight and seemed to have a knack for distilling complicated medical jargon and ideas into language that was easy for people without medical expertise to understand.
    Alice Park, TIME, 13 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • Even with its luxury focus, Laura Lendrum, CEO of Printemps America, said the store mixes in more approachable items for tourists or aspirational shoppers who may stop by for a cup of coffee or browse for a $50 gift.
    Melissa Repko, CNBC, 22 Mar. 2025
  • For example, payments made through a third-party network for a birthday or holiday or wedding gifts; for sharing the cost of a car ride or meal; or for paying a family member or roommate for a household bill aren’t taxable.
    Kelly Phillips Erb, Forbes, 22 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • It’s made of metal and has a distressed white finish that gives it an almost Parisian flair.
    Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 Mar. 2025
  • The slim silhouette, longer fit, and waist tie are akin to Paltrow’s, while the buttoned chest pockets and contrast piping offer stylish flair.
    Jamie Allison Sanders, People.com, 19 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Talent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/talent. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on talent

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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