be skilled at

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'be skilled at' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to talk about someone who has expertise in something - for example, "My brother is very skilled at playing the guitar."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

You must be skilled at creating complex tactics that give the impression you have forgotten the analysis and are floundering.

The New York Times

But as Dr. Bargonetti's schedule shows, those who involve themselves heavily in teaching have to be skilled at juggling.

The New York Times - Science

While liberal journalists try to sink his candidacy with past statements on homosexuality and abortion, Mr. Day has proved to be skilled at reinventing himself.

The New York Times

Mr. Bloomberg added that he would canoe or kayak down the Bronx River, two activities he claims to be skilled at.

The New York Times

If nobility and peril are criteria, why do we incessantly use the word in regard to millionaires who get to ride in splendor along lower Broadway's "Canyon of Heroes," just because they happen to be skilled at baseball?

The New York Times

I've been a little out of touch but is there a mandate that the vice president be skilled at field dressing a moose — OBAMA Look — BARTLET — and selling Air Force Two on eBay?

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

Tiger Global, meanwhile, is skilled at international expansions.

The New York Times

You are skilled at navigating linear politics.

The Guardian

He is skilled at doing so.

The Guardian

Truth was skilled at promoting herself.

The New York Times

"We are skilled at emergency evacuations.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's abilities, follow "be skilled at" with a specific and measurable skill to enhance clarity. For instance, instead of saying "She is skilled at something", specify "She is skilled at data analysis and interpretation".

Common error

Avoid using overly general terms after "be skilled at". For example, saying "He is skilled at things" lacks detail. Instead, specify what he is proficient in to provide a clearer picture of his capabilities, such as "He is skilled at negotiation and conflict resolution".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be skilled at" functions as a descriptive phrase. It attaches a quality of proficiency to a subject in relation to a specific activity or area. Examples from Ludwig show it describing expertise in various fields, from chess tactics to juggling and canoeing. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Science

13%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be skilled at" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression for indicating proficiency in a particular area, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It enjoys broad applicability across diverse contexts, particularly in news media, science, and general discussions. To ensure clarity and precision in your writing, follow the expression with specific and measurable skills. While alternatives like "excel in" or "possess expertise in" exist, "be skilled at" strikes a balance between formality and everyday usage. Ultimately, understanding its function, purpose, and potential pitfalls will allow you to wield this phrase effectively in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

excel in

Highlights exceptional performance in a particular area.

be adept at

Suggests a natural talent or quickness in learning.

be proficient in

Implies competence and efficiency in a skill or task.

be masterful at

Emphasizes a high level of skill and control.

possess expertise in

More formal and emphasizes a deep understanding or mastery.

be competent in

Focuses on having the necessary abilities to perform adequately.

have a talent for

Highlights a natural aptitude or gift.

have a knack for

Implies an inherent talent or ease in doing something.

be experienced in

Focuses on skill gained through practical application and exposure.

be well-versed in

Suggests comprehensive knowledge and understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "be skilled at" in a sentence?

Use "be skilled at" to describe someone's proficiency in a particular activity. For instance, "She is skilled at project management", or "He is skilled at playing the piano".

What are some alternatives to "be skilled at"?

You can use alternatives like "possess expertise in", "excel in", or "be proficient in" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "skilled in" or "skilled at"?

Both "skilled in" and "skilled at" are correct, but "skilled at" is generally more common when referring to a specific activity or task. "Skilled in" is often used for broader areas of expertise.

What is the difference between "be skilled at" and "have a talent for"?

"Be skilled at" implies competence acquired through learning and practice, while "have a talent for" suggests a natural aptitude or inherent ability.