What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
aptitudes
Example
She has a natural aptitude for playing the piano. [aptitude: noun]
Example
His aptitudes in mathematics and problem-solving make him a great engineer. [aptitudes: plural noun]
abilities
Example
Her ability to speak multiple languages is impressive. [ability: noun]
Example
He has the ability to solve complex problems quickly. [ability: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Abilities is more commonly used than aptitudes in everyday language. Abilities are versatile and can be applied to various contexts, while aptitudes are more commonly used in educational or career settings to assess a person's potential or suitability for a specific field.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between aptitudes and abilities?
While aptitudes are typically associated with a more formal tone, abilities can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
