talents

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "talents" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to a person's natural abilities, aptitudes, or strengths that can be developed for use in the performing or creative arts or in something else. For example: "He was born with a lot of musical talents and grew up to be a successful singer-songwriter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Music

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

For sure, he must have found it irksome to see the fate that befell Rangers after his talents were considered inadequate for a club with European issues.

The Guardian - Sport

He is one of the league's brightest young talents and was NFL offensive rookie of the year last season.

The Guardian - Sport

A growing number of studies certainly show they're convinced that it's their inbred talents that make them wealthy and successful – and that if the rest of us don't share their status, it's simply because we don't share their traits.

The Guardian - Money

Beckford's hope now is that having become only the third player to score a hat-trick in a play-off final, following on from Clive Mendonca of Charlton and Swansea City's Scott Sinclair, a wider audience will be reminded of his talents.

The Guardian - Sport

Sadly, because he has been one of the game's outstanding talents, but fittingly too, he ended his last World Cup final with a yellow card for one last argument, this on behalf of Dezotti whose dismissal for grabbing Kohler round the neck three minutes from the end and wrestling him to the ground was a bit hard.

The Guardian - Sport

For Carlos Bilardo, the Argentina manager, the moment was a culmination of three and a half years' patient rebuilding of their squad in which his prime task was to marry the outstanding talents of Maradona with the newer players coming through.

The Guardian - Sport

To add salt to the wound of those who felt this was wasted cash, despite Sheffield producing many sporting talents in this period (including Olympic gold medallist Jessica Ennis), Don Valley Stadium, where Ennis trained, finally closed in September 2013 due to extreme financial pressures, and has since been demolished.

The Guardian

When they take to the stage that evening, to a politely rapturous crowd, there is already a sense of absence – a space where the very particular talents of Ferrer, González, Segundo, Cachaíto and the others once stood.

The Guardian - Music

It is sad that he never recaptured the political heights despite bursts of brilliance, and never found a new political role big enough for his talents.

The Guardian - Opinion

"He was a mythical figure in my childhood... and his many musical scores, essays and patents in addition to his prolific artistic output attest to his many talents," she said.

The Guardian

Nicola is considering alternative career choices that suit different talents.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "talents" when referring to a collection of skills or abilities, rather than a single skill. If referring to a single exceptional ability, consider using 'talent'.

Common error

Avoid using "talents" when referring to a single skill. Instead, use it when discussing a range of abilities or inherent strengths. For example, instead of saying 'His only talent is singing', specify 'He possesses various musical talents'.

Linguistic Context

The word "talents" functions primarily as a noun, referring to natural abilities or aptitudes. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable form in written English, often describing inherent strengths or skills.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Sport

20%

Music

10%

Less common in

Opinion

8%

Film

7%

Higher Education

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "talents" is a versatile noun used to describe a range of natural abilities or skills. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use across various contexts. It is particularly common in news, sports, and music reporting, with authoritative sources like The Guardian frequently employing the term. When using "talents", specificity and awareness of its scope—referring to a collection of skills rather than a single one—are essential for clear and impactful communication. Related phrases, such as "natural gifts" or "innate abilities", can offer alternative ways to express similar concepts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

natural gifts

Focuses on inherent abilities rather than developed skills.

innate abilities

Emphasizes the inborn nature of the capabilities.

natural aptitudes

Highlights the ease and inclination toward certain skills.

inherent skills

Emphasizes the skills that are naturally present.

endowments

Refers to qualities or abilities bestowed upon someone.

capabilities

Highlights the capacity to perform specific tasks or actions.

proficiencies

Emphasizes a high degree of competence in a particular area.

aptitudes

Highlights a natural inclination or talent for something.

forte

Refers to a person's strong point or area of expertise.

gifts

Focuses on inherent abilities considered as special advantages.

FAQs

How do I use "talents" in a sentence?

You can use "talents" to describe someone's natural abilities or skills. For example, "She has many musical talents" or "The company is seeking individuals with diverse talents".

What are some synonyms for "talents"?

Alternatives to "talents" include "natural gifts", "innate abilities", or "aptitudes", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "talent" instead of "talents"?

Yes, "talent" (singular) refers to a specific ability, while "talents" (plural) refers to multiple abilities or a general aptitude. Choose the form that matches the context.

What is the difference between "skills" and "talents"?

"Skills" are acquired through learning and practice, whereas "talents" are often considered innate or natural abilities. However, both can overlap and contribute to a person's overall capabilities.