What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
prowess
Example
The athlete's prowess on the field was unmatched by any of his competitors. [prowess: noun]
Example
She demonstrated her prowess in chess by winning every game in the tournament. [prowess: noun]
ability
Example
He has the ability to learn new languages quickly. [ability: noun]
Example
She showed her ability to play the piano with great skill and precision. [ability: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ability is more commonly used than prowess in everyday language. Ability is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts and can be used in both formal and informal situations, while prowess is less common and more formal.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between prowess and ability?
Prowess is a more formal word than ability and is often used in formal or literary contexts to express admiration or respect for someone's exceptional abilities or achievements. Ability, on the other hand, is a more versatile and commonly used word that can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
