Skill: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'skill' to talk about the ability to do something well, usually something that takes practice to learn.

• John has great cooking skills
• She demonstrated her skills on the piano

Use 'expertise' to describe a high level of knowledge or skill in a specific area, usually gained through experience.

• Dr
• Smith's expertise in neurosurgery is well-known
• We need your expertise to solve this problem

Use 'capability' to talk about someone's potential or the power to do something, often in a broader or more general sense.

• The robot's capabilities are impressive
• She has the capability to lead the team

Use 'proficiency' to indicate a good degree of skill or ability in a particular area, often measured through tests or levels.

• Her proficiency in Spanish is impressive
• He achieved a high level of proficiency in programming

Use 'competence' to discuss the necessary ability to do something to a certain standard, often used in professional or educational contexts.

• Her competence in handling customer complaints is commendable
• He showed a lack of competence during the presentation

Used to describe expertise or proficiency acquired through practice and training. It is often related to specific tasks or activities.

• Her cooking skills are impressive.
• He has honed his skills as a carpenter over many years.

Refers to a natural ability or proficiency in a particular area, suggesting not only innate ability but also the potential to achieve great things with development and practice.

• His talent for singing was recognized by his teachers.
• She has a talent for coding and development, making complex algorithms look easy.

Emphasizes a natural inclination or quickness in learning and understanding specific types of tasks or knowledge. It is often used in educational and professional contexts.

• He has an aptitude for languages, picking up new vocabulary easily.
• Her aptitude for music became evident at an early age.

Used to describe an exceptional natural talent or endowment, often seen as something innate or given without effort. It carries a positive and often admiring tone.

• She has a gift for painting that leaves everyone in awe.
• His gift for storytelling captivates audiences.

Refers to the general capacity to perform actions or tasks, often highlighting natural potential but can also encompass learned skills.

• She has the ability to solve complex mathematical problems.
• His ability to stay calm under pressure is remarkable.

Used to describe an ability or expertise that someone has acquired through practice and education. Often used in job descriptions or resumes.

• She has excellent communication skills.
• His skills in programming are exceptional.

Used when talking about making something better, more efficient, or more valuable. Can be applied to various skills, conditions, or situations.

• They plan to improve their customer service.
• She has been working hard to improve her reading skills.

Used to describe making something that already exists better or more effective. Often used in formal or professional contexts.

• The new software will enhance productivity.
• They attended workshops to enhance their leadership skills.

Used when talking about the process of acquiring or improving skills, traits, or attributes over time through practice and experience.

• They are working to develop new strategies for marketing.
• He developed his negotiation skills during his career in sales.

Used to describe sharpening or refining a skill or ability through continuous practice. Implies a focus on perfection and precision.

• She spent years honing her artistic skills.
• He honed his public speaking abilities by joining a local club.