a skill

USAGE SUMMARY

"a skill" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it when referring to a specific ability or ability set. For example: "Carpentry requires a skill set that takes many years to master."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

You had mastered a skill.

Huffington Post

Gift giving is a skill.

Huffington Post

Landscaping is a skill.

The New York Times

"Taking notes is a skill".

The New York Times

And people with a skill".

The Guardian

That's a skill".

The New York Times

It's a skill".

The New York Times

They're learning a skill.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It's such a skill.

The Guardian

That's quite a skill.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Braking was a skill.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When emphasizing the development of an ability through learning and practice, use "a skill". For example, "Effective communication is a skill that can be honed over time."

Common error

Avoid using "a skill" when referring to innate abilities. "Talent" is more appropriate for inherent aptitudes, while "a skill" denotes something acquired through learning or experience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a skill" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It typically acts as the subject complement or direct object in a sentence, denoting a specific ability that can be learned or developed, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

23%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a skill" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to refer to a specific ability that can be learned or developed. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It appears frequently in News & Media, Academia, and Wiki contexts, maintaining a neutral to professional register. When using the phrase, ensure you're referring to a learned ability rather than an innate talent. Alternatives include "an ability", "a talent", and "an expertise", each with subtle differences in meaning. Remember, according to Ludwig’s analysis and examples, "a skill" is about acquired proficiency, not inherent aptitude.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an ability

Focuses on the general capacity to perform something, rather than the learned proficiency implied by "skill".

a talent

Suggests an innate aptitude for something, contrasting with the acquired nature of "skill".

an expertise

Highlights a high level of proficiency and knowledge in a particular area.

a proficiency

Emphasizes competence and mastery in a specific area.

a competence

Indicates the ability to perform a task adequately, often in a professional setting.

a knack

Implies a natural or intuitive ability to do something easily.

a capability

Refers to the potential to perform a specific task or function.

a craft

Highlights skill in a traditional manual art.

a technique

Focuses on the method or procedure used to achieve a task, rather than the overall ability.

a mastery

Signifies comprehensive knowledge or skill in a subject or accomplishment.

FAQs

How is "a skill" typically used in a sentence?

The phrase "a skill" usually functions as a noun phrase, often the object of a verb. For example, "Learning to code is "a skill" that is highly valued today."

What are some alternatives to using "a skill"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "an ability", "a talent", or "an expertise". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How does "a skill" differ from "a talent"?

"A skill" is generally something that is learned and developed through practice, while "a talent" is often seen as an innate or natural ability.

When is it more appropriate to use "an ability" instead of "a skill"?

Use "an ability" when referring to the general capacity to do something. Use "a skill" when referring to a specific, learned proficiency.