HOW TO PRONOUNCE
ability
/əˈbɪləˌti/
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American Pronunciation Guide · 0:57
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What does ability mean?
noun
- The quality or state of being able; capacity to do or of doing something; having the necessary power.
- The legal wherewithal to act.
- Physical power.
More meanings (4)
noun
- A unique power of the mind; a faculty.
- A skill or competence in doing; mental power; talent; aptitude.
- (obsolete) Suitableness.
- (archaic) Financial ability.
Definitions regrouped for readability · CC BY-SA 4.0
IPA pronunciation
/əˈbɪləˌti/
CMU Pronouncing Dictionary ↗Pronunciation varies by speaker and region. About these dictionary pronunciations.
In the pages of books
See this word in context.
The ability to pay for imports therefore continues to rest largely on the vagaries of the climate and the international coffee market.
If I sometimes seem to take too great pride in my fighting ability, it must be remembered that fighting is my vocation.
More book examples (3)
“I have no doubt she could make you do it if she should try. That ‘s what I mean by her ability.”
When I include vagrancy in this list, I do it on the supposition that the opportunity and ability for work are present.
They must bring some social distinction,--letters of introduction, or an ability to help us in ways in which we cannot help ourselves.