adept at

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "adept at" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone's ability in a given skill. For example: "My brother is particularly adept at using technology."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Martoma was unusually adept at cultivating mentors.

The New Yorker

I've become adept at seeming shorter.

The New York Times

Drasner was adept at marathon evening sessions.

The New Yorker

Goode is adept at talent recruitment.

The New Yorker

One candidate is particularly adept at that.

The New Yorker

(She was adept at playing plucky orphans).

The Guardian - Film

Iranians are adept at producing home brew.

The Economist

Poulter is particularly adept at this.

Independent

And the N.F.L. is adept at correction.

The New York Times - Sports

Yoshimune proved adept at personnel matters.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They also proved adept at lobbying.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "adept at" to describe someone's refined skill acquired through practice or training. This suggests a level of competence beyond mere capability.

Common error

Don't use "adept at" when describing innate abilities or talents. "Adept" implies a developed skill, not an inherent gift. Use "talented at" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "adept at" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase indicating a high level of skill or proficiency in a particular activity or area. As Ludwig AI confirms, this expression is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "adept at" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe proficiency or skill in a particular area. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely accepted and applicable in various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, science, and encyclopedias, "adept at" serves to highlight competence and mastery, indicating more than just basic ability. When seeking alternatives, consider "skilled in", "proficient in", or "expert in" to fine-tune the nuance of your writing. Remember to reserve "adept at" for developed skills, not inherent talents, to maintain accuracy in your descriptions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

skilled in

Focuses on possessing skill, similar to being "adept", but with a more general implication of ability.

proficient in

Highlights a high degree of competence and mastery, suggesting a more advanced level of skill than simply being "adept".

expert in

Indicates recognized expertise, implying a higher level of skill and knowledge than "adept".

talented at

Emphasizes natural ability or gift, whereas "adept" focuses more on learned skill.

good at

A more general and less formal way of saying someone is skilled; "adept" suggests a higher level of competence.

capable of

Focuses on the ability to perform a task, differing from "adept" which emphasizes skill and finesse.

accomplished in

Suggests a history of success and achievement, implying more experience than simply being "adept".

masterful in

Conveys a sense of complete control and expertise, indicating a higher level of skill than "adept".

seasoned in

Implies a lot of experience and ability gained over time in a specific field or skill.

well-versed in

Highlights knowledge and familiarity, rather than just skill, setting it apart from "adept".

FAQs

How can I use "adept at" in a sentence?

Use "adept at" to describe someone who is highly skilled or proficient in a particular activity. For example, "She is "adept at" problem-solving".

What are some alternatives to saying someone is "adept at" something?

You can use alternatives such as "skilled in", "proficient in", or "expert in", depending on the specific context and the level of skill you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "adept in" instead of "adept at"?

While "adept at" is the more common and widely accepted phrase, "adept in" can also be used, though it is less frequent. Both prepositions indicate skill or proficiency in a particular area.

What is the difference between "adept at" and "capable of"?

"Adept at" implies a high level of skill and proficiency, while "capable of" simply means having the ability to do something. Being "adept at" something suggests a refined and practiced skill, whereas being "capable of" only indicates basic competence.