mental ability

USAGE SUMMARY

"mental ability" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to the power of the mind to think, remember information, plan, and focus. For example: "Jonny's mental ability helped him navigate the difficult task with ease."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It takes a lot of mental ability.

The New York Times - Sports

Other studies have revealed, rather surprisingly, that mental ability does not in itself result in success.

The Guardian

"I think we've definitely got the physical and mental ability to get through it," McCulloch said.

The Guardian - Sport

tests to evaluations that measure achievement, motivation, creativity and mental ability.

The New York Times

"He's someone that looks to have the mental ability to do it," Courier said of Murray.

The New York Times

"In Nassau County they virtually eliminated the mental ability component of the exam.

The New York Times

Patients lack the mental ability to make rational decisions regarding their rights, treatments and benefits.

The New York Times - Health

He's not impervious to pain, but he has the mental ability to get over it.

The New Yorker

They also gave the subjects a battery of tests that measured overall mental ability.

The New York Times - Health

It will not raise participants' scores on tests of mental ability.

The New York Times - Health

mental ability or extraordinary ability in a specific sphere of activity or knowledge.

Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "mental ability" in contexts where you want to refer to the general capacity for thinking, learning, and problem-solving, without focusing on a particular skill.

Common error

While "mental ability" is widely understood, overuse can make your writing sound less precise. Consider using synonyms like "cognitive capacity" or "intellectual capability" to vary your language and provide more specific detail.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "mental ability" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. According to Ludwig, it correctly refers to the power of the mind to think, remember, plan, and focus. For instance, "Tests of mental ability" are commonly used in research and assessment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Academia

24%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Science

8%

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "mental ability" is a widely used and grammatically correct noun phrase referring to the capacity of the mind for cognitive functions. Ludwig AI confirms its accurate usage in various contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media and Academic sources, the phrase maintains a neutral to formal register. While versatile, consider using synonyms for enhanced precision in specific discussions. Understanding the function and context of "mental ability" enables more effective and nuanced communication regarding cognitive skills and potential.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cognitive capacity

Focuses more on the brain's information processing capabilities.

intellectual capability

Emphasizes the potential for learning and understanding.

thinking skills

Highlights specific learned abilities related to thought processes.

cognitive function

Refers to the operational processes of the mind.

reasoning power

Stresses the ability to logically analyze information.

mental acuity

Implies sharpness and quickness of thought.

brainpower

An informal term for intellectual capacity.

intellect

Refers to the general capacity for knowledge and reason.

cognitive competence

Highlights the effectiveness of cognitive processes.

mental prowess

Suggests exceptional skill in thinking or problem-solving.

FAQs

How is "mental ability" measured?

"Mental ability" is typically measured through standardized tests that assess various cognitive functions, such as memory, reasoning, and problem-solving skills. These tests aim to provide a quantitative assessment of an individual's intellectual capacity.

What factors can affect "mental ability"?

Many factors can influence "mental ability", including genetics, nutrition, education, and environmental exposures. Additionally, age, stress, and certain medical conditions can also impact cognitive function.

What's the difference between "mental ability" and "intelligence"?

While the terms are often used interchangeably, "mental ability" generally refers to a broader range of cognitive functions, whereas "intelligence" is often considered a more specific measure of intellectual capacity, especially as assessed by standardized tests.

How can I improve my "mental ability"?

Engaging in activities that challenge your brain, such as learning new skills, solving puzzles, and staying physically active, can help improve your "mental ability". Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and managing stress are also crucial for cognitive health.