Skills: meaning, definitions and examples

When talking about acquired capabilities or competencies in various areas such as work, hobbies, or education. This word is broad and can be used in general contexts.

• She has excellent communication skills.
• The job requires strong technical skills.

To describe advanced knowledge or skill in a particular field. Generally used in professional or academic settings.

• Her expertise in data analysis is well-regarded.
• We need someone with legal expertise for this case.

To refer to the capacity to do something, often innate or natural. Used to describe general capability in everyday tasks or specific actions.

• He has the ability to solve complex problems quickly.
• Her artistic ability is impressive.

To describe natural aptitude or skill, often in arts, sports, or creative fields. It implies an innate quality rather than learned capability.

• She has a natural talent for singing.
• His basketball talent was evident from a young age.

When referring to a high degree of competence or skill in a specific area, often measured or tested.

• His proficiency in Spanish is at a native level.
• You must demonstrate proficiency with this software.

Use when referring to learned and practiced abilities that are often job-related or task-specific.

• He has strong computer skills
• Her culinary skills are impressive

Refers to the general capacity to do something, often inborn or naturally acquired, and can be used broadly.

• She has the ability to solve complex problems
• His ability to communicate is exceptional

Denotes a natural or exceptional ability in a specific area, often used in a complimentary manner.

• She has an amazing talent for painting
• His talent for languages is impressive

Highlights the potential to perform a particular task or achieve something, often in a broader or more complex sense.

• The software has the capability to handle large data sets
• His capability in managing the team was evident

Indicates a natural tendency or talent for learning something quickly, often used in the context of potential or suitability for a particular task.

• He showed great aptitude for music at a young age
• Her aptitude for mathematics is remarkable

Use this term when talking about abilities that someone has learned and developed through practice or training.

• She has excellent communication skills.
• His technical skills are unmatched in the industry.

Fit for situations where someone performs extremely well or surpasses others in a specific area or activity.

• He always excels in mathematics.
• This company excels in customer service.

Useful when referring to carrying out a task or activity, particularly in a professional or formal setting.

• He needs to perform well in the interview.
• The team performed admirably under pressure.

Best used when someone has attained a high level of proficiency or control over a subject, skill, or activity.

• She has mastered the art of public speaking.
• To master a language, one must practice constantly.

This word is appropriate when referring to reaching a goal or accomplishing something significant through effort.

• They worked hard to achieve their goals.
• She managed to achieve a perfect score on her exam.