a degree of skill

USAGE SUMMARY

"a degree of skill" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe the level or amount of skill required or possessed by someone in a particular task or activity. It can also be used to compare the level of skill between different individuals or situations. Example: "The job of a surgeon requires a high degree of skill and precision." In this sentence, the phrase emphasizes the level of skill needed for a specific job. Another example: "She demonstrated a remarkable degree of skill in playing the piano, outshining all of her competitors in the music competition." In this sentence, the phrase is used to compare the level of skill between the person and their competitors.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

There's a degree of skill spillover in the labor market – even if a person is very skilled.

Huffington Post

Even so, the main point is not that density is necessarily in itself bad, but that it requires a degree of skill in planning and design that is not on offer.

The Guardian - Arts

They looked in danger of going down without a fight when Troy Deeney scored early but Neil's team stormed back with a performance that confirmed they have spirit and a degree of skill.

The Guardian - Sport

But that only illustrates the point that hedge-fund returns are not conjured from thin air: they are significantly dependent on the fortunes of financial markets in general.There is, to be sure, a degree of skill involved too.

The Economist

The fashion for elaborate relief ornament of the Renaissance and Mannerist periods called for a degree of skill in modelling that was beyond the powers of the average goldsmith.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Science and its institutions have developed a degree of skill in predicting temperature, wind speed, hurricane tracks, and other environmental variables and their relationships with aspects of the energy system.

Environmental Systems Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

It takes persistence and a degree of acquired skill to become really competent on the web.

The Guardian - Tech

While being a cinematographer does bring with it a degree of technical skill, Mr. Geissbühler also had help from his brother, Phillip, who is a physicist in Boston.

The New York Times - Science

Since we spend a lot of time presenting our research to one another, a degree of oratory skill and charisma can play no small role in one's success.

The Guardian - Opinion

To overcome these big drawbacks Rio would have to exhibit a degree of dealmaking skill that has so far eluded it.The sheer pain of raising equity right now is one lesson from the miners' experience.

The Economist

But if his asset-selling drive is to gather momentum, he will have to win over his own party, which might demand a degree of political skill that he has yet to exhibit.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a degree of skill" to specifically denote a particular level or amount of proficiency required or demonstrated in a task. For a more impactful statement, specify whether it's a "high degree of skill" or a "certain degree of skill".

Common error

Avoid using "a high degree of skill" when "adequate skill" would be more accurate. Overstating can diminish the credibility of your writing. Always calibrate the intensity of the phrase to match the actual skill level being described.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a degree of skill" functions as a noun phrase that describes the extent or level of proficiency in a particular area. Ludwig AI indicates that it's a grammatically correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a degree of skill" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase that denotes a specific level or amount of proficiency, as supported by Ludwig AI. While not exceedingly common, it's found in a variety of contexts, from news and media to scientific and encyclopedic sources, with a neutral register making it versatile for different writing styles. Remember to match the level of "degree" to be precise in descriptions. Consider alternatives such as "a level of expertise" or "some proficiency" depending on the context. The frequent use in quality publications like The Guardian and The New York Times underscores its acceptability in formal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a level of expertise

Substitutes "skill" with "expertise", emphasizing specialized knowledge.

a certain level of competence

Replaces "degree of skill" with a more formal term, "competence".

some proficiency

Uses "proficiency" to convey a level of skill, simplifying the phrase.

a measure of ability

Focuses on the "ability" aspect, using "measure" to quantify it.

a modicum of talent

Highlights "talent" and uses "modicum" to suggest a limited amount.

a quantum of aptitude

Emphasizes "aptitude" with "quantum" suggesting a specific measurable amount.

a fair amount of know-how

Replaces "skill" with the more informal "know-how".

some mastery

Implies a high level of skill and control.

a touch of finesse

Emphasizes the refinement and grace associated with skill.

a shade of dexterity

Focuses on physical skill, or "dexterity", and only a small amount of it.

FAQs

How can I use "a degree of skill" in a sentence?

You can use "a degree of skill" to describe the level of proficiency needed for a task, such as: "The intricate surgery requires "a high degree of skill"" or "The successful negotiation required "a certain degree of skill"".

What phrases are similar to "a degree of skill"?

Similar phrases include "a level of expertise", "a certain level of competence", or "some proficiency". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a degree of skill" or "a skill"?

"A skill" refers to a general ability, while "a degree of skill" specifies a level or extent of that ability. For example, "He has a skill in painting" versus "He has "a high degree of skill" in painting".

When is it appropriate to use "a high degree of skill"?

Use "a high degree of skill" when the activity or task requires significant proficiency, training, or talent. For example, "Piloting a commercial aircraft requires "a high degree of skill" and precision".