Skills Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ช
skills
[skษชlz ]
Definitions
personal development
The ability to do something well; expertise.
Synonyms
ability, expertise, proficiency, talent.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| skills |
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.
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| expertise |
To describe advanced knowledge or skill in a particular field. Generally used in professional or academic settings.
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| ability |
To refer to the capacity to do something, often innate or natural. Used to describe general capability in everyday tasks or specific actions.
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| talent |
To describe natural aptitude or skill, often in arts, sports, or creative fields. It implies an innate quality rather than learned capability.
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| proficiency |
When referring to a high degree of competence or skill in a specific area, often measured or tested.
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Examples of usage
- My sister has great skills in playing the piano.
- He has excellent communication skills.
- She demonstrated her leadership skills during the project.
employment
A particular ability or proficiency; a talent.
Synonyms
ability, aptitude, capability, talent.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| skills |
Use when referring to learned and practiced abilities that are often job-related or task-specific.
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| ability |
Refers to the general capacity to do something, often inborn or naturally acquired, and can be used broadly.
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| talent |
Denotes a natural or exceptional ability in a specific area, often used in a complimentary manner.
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| capability |
Highlights the potential to perform a particular task or achieve something, often in a broader or more complex sense.
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| aptitude |
Indicates a natural tendency or talent for learning something quickly, often used in the context of potential or suitability for a particular task.
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Examples of usage
- She showcased her writing skills in the article.
- The job requires good organizational skills.
- His problem-solving skills are outstanding.
informal
To be able to do something well.
Synonyms
achieve, excel, master, perform.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| skills |
Use this term when talking about abilities that someone has learned and developed through practice or training.
|
| excel |
Fit for situations where someone performs extremely well or surpasses others in a specific area or activity.
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| perform |
Useful when referring to carrying out a task or activity, particularly in a professional or formal setting.
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| master |
Best used when someone has attained a high level of proficiency or control over a subject, skill, or activity.
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| achieve |
This word is appropriate when referring to reaching a goal or accomplishing something significant through effort.
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Examples of usage
- She skills at playing the guitar.
- He skills in computer programming.
- They skills at multitasking.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Education
- Skills are often categorized into hard skills, which are specific and measurable (like coding), and soft skills, which relate to how you work with others (like communication).
- Learning new skills is a lifelong process that can improve personal and professional growth, adapted to changing job markets.
Pop Culture
- Popular reality TV shows like 'The Great British Bake Off' highlight contestants' culinary skills in a competitive yet friendly environment.
- Video games often reward players with skill advancements, allowing them to level up and become proficient in various challenges.
Psychology
- Skill acquisition is linked to the brainโs plasticity, where new neural connections are formed through practice and experience.
- The 10,000-hour rule suggests that approximately 10,000 hours of practice can lead to mastery in a specific skill.
History
- Throughout history, artisans and craftspeople have passed down skills through apprenticeships, ensuring the survival of various trades and crafts.
- Military training often relies on specialized skills, developing troops' abilities to work as cohesive units in strategic situations.
Origin of 'skills'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'skills' comes from the Old Norse word 'skylda', which means to separate or to divide, hinting at the variety of abilities a person can develop.
- In Middle English, the term evolved to 'skille', reflecting the idea of a 'deliberate action' or clear capability.
The word 'skills' originated from the Old Norse word 'skil', meaning distinction or knowledge. It has evolved over time to represent the abilities and competencies of an individual in various fields. The concept of skills has been essential throughout human history, from ancient craftsmanship to modern technology-driven professions. Developing and honing skills is crucial for personal and professional growth.
See also: skill, skilled, skillful, skillfully, skillfulness, unskilled, unskillful, unskillfully.