Skilled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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skilled

[skɪld ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

workplace

Having or showing skill; expert.

Synonyms

competent, experienced, expert, proficient.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
skilled

The word 'skilled' is repeated.

  • This context and examples are the same as earlier.
expert

Describes someone who has a high level of knowledge or skill in a particular area, usually recognized by others.

  • She is an expert in cybersecurity and often speaks at conferences.
  • The expert provided a detailed analysis of the situation.
competent

Applies to someone who is capable and efficient in their responsibilities or tasks, usually in a professional or formal setting.

  • She is a competent manager who handles her team well.
  • The lawyer provided competent legal advice on the matter.
proficient

Indicates a high degree of skill or competence in a particular activity or field, but often used in contexts where formal achievements are highlighted.

  • He is proficient in multiple programming languages.
  • She became proficient in Spanish after living in Spain for two years.
experienced

Refers to someone who has gained a lot of knowledge or skills by doing something for a long time.

  • He is an experienced pilot with thousands of flight hours.
  • The company hired an experienced accountant to manage their finances.

Examples of usage

  • He is a skilled carpenter.
  • She is a skilled negotiator.
  • Only skilled workers are allowed in this area.
  • The company is looking for skilled professionals.
  • The project requires a skilled team to complete on time.
Context #2 | Adjective

sports

Having or showing proficiency in a particular sport or activity.

Synonyms

accomplished, competent, proficient, talented.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
skilled

Used to describe someone who has expertise or is highly trained in a particular craft or profession.

  • She is a skilled carpenter capable of intricate woodwork.
  • The company hires skilled technicians to handle complex machinery.
proficient

Indicates a high degree of skill and ability through experience and practice, often used in reference to languages or technical skills.

  • He is proficient in both Spanish and French.
  • The engineer is proficient in using advanced software for design projects.
talented

Highlights natural aptitude or innate abilities in a particular area, often used for artistic or creative skills.

  • The talented artist's work was showcased in the gallery.
  • She is a talented singer with a unique voice.
competent

Describes someone who is capable and sufficiently skilled to perform a task or job adequately, usually without implying exceptional ability.

  • She is a competent manager who ensures the team meets its goals.
  • The mechanic provided competent service at a reasonable price.
accomplished

Often refers to someone who has achieved a high level of success or recognition in their field, sometimes implying a well-rounded and highly educated individual.

  • He is an accomplished pianist, having performed in concerts worldwide.
  • The accomplished writer has published several bestselling novels.

Examples of usage

  • He is a skilled tennis player.
  • She is a skilled dancer.
  • The team has many skilled athletes.
  • Skilled athletes are more likely to win competitions.
  • The coach focuses on developing skilled players.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Education

  • Many education systems emphasize skill development through hands-on learning, allowing students to apply knowledge in real-world contexts.
  • Vocational training programs are specifically designed to help individuals become skilled in trades, preparing them for specific careers.

Psychology

  • The concept of 'deliberate practice' is crucial for becoming skilled, emphasizing that intentional and focused effort leads to mastery.
  • Research indicates that people often develop skills through repetitive actions combined with feedback, which helps enhance performance.

Pop Culture

  • In video games, 'skilled' players often achieve high ranks or accolades, showcasing their expertise and strategic thinking.
  • Competitions like 'American Ninja Warrior' highlight the skills of contestants who have trained rigorously to overcome physical challenges.

Arts

  • Many famous artists and musicians are celebrated for their skilled techniques, which are often honed over many years of practice.
  • The term 'skill' in art can refer to both technical abilities, like painting or playing instruments, and the creative instincts that drive originality.

Origin of 'skilled'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old Norse word 'skil,' meaning 'to discern or separate,' which implies having the ability to tell things apart.
  • Its journey through languages shows how being 'skilled' was historically linked to practical expertise in crafts or trades.

The word 'skilled' originated from the Middle English word 'skilful', which meant having or showing skill. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century. The term emphasizes expertise, proficiency, and experience in a particular field or activity.


See also: skill, skillful, skillfully, skillfulness, skills, unskilled, unskillful, unskillfully.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,087, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.