talent
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /tˈælənt/
US
- /ˈtælənt/
Description
- natural ability
- special skill
- gift
- flair
Talent is a natural ability that makes someone good at something from the start. Think of a child who picks up a musical instrument and, even without much help, can already play a simple tune. It can show up in art, music, sports, math, writing, or many other areas. Practice still matters, but the basic gift is already there. We often say someone has "a talent for" something, like "She has a talent for making people laugh" or "He has a talent for fixing things." The word can also mean people with strong ability, especially in work or entertainment, as in "The company is looking for new talent."
Talent refers to a natural aptitude or skill in doing something. It is more than just learned ability; it suggests an inborn capacity that makes learning and doing well come more easily. Hard work is still important, but talent gives a person a strong starting point.
Historically, "talent" was once a unit of weight and value in the ancient world. Over time, the word came to mean a valuable personal gift, which is how we use it today. You might think of a great singer, a gifted scientist, or a brilliant athlete as someone with remarkable talent.
Talent is not limited to famous or exceptional people. A person may have a talent for cooking, gardening, teaching, organizing, telling stories, or listening well. Sometimes this ability is obvious early in life, and sometimes it stays hidden until it has a chance to grow.
We often talk about "talent shows," where people display what they can do, but the word is also common in everyday life. A talented teacher connects with students easily, a talented chef creates memorable dishes, and a talented designer sees solutions that others miss. In business, sports, and entertainment, "talent" can also mean skilled people themselves. A manager might say, "We need fresh talent on the team," meaning new people with strong ability and promise.
So, while practice and experience help a person improve, talent is the natural gift that often gives the first push and helps someone stand out.
Examples
- 1
Early skill
She showed a real talent for drawing when she was still in primary school.
- 2
Social skill
He has a talent for making people feel comfortable.
Pattern
talent for + activity/-ing
natural ability to do it well
- 3
Ability vs practice
Natural talent can help, but practice still matters.
- 4
Creative range
Her talents go beyond music; she also writes and directs.
- 5
Sports team
The coach believes the squad has enough talent to win the league.
- 6
Recruiting
The company is trying to attract top talent from overseas.
Meaning
talent can mean talented people, especially workers or performers
- 7
Local performers
The festival gives local talent a chance to perform on a big stage.
- 8
Hidden ability
I had no idea cooking was one of his hidden talents.
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- talentnoun
Forms
- talentspluralnoun