be skillful

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be skillful" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when advising someone to demonstrate proficiency or expertise in a particular area or task. Example: "To succeed in this competition, you must be skillful in your techniques and strategies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

This exhibition reveals the Quays to be skillful jacks of several artistic mediums.

The New York Times - Arts

Meehl, G. A. et al. Decadal prediction: can it be skillful?

Nature

A frequent metaphor for the working of the Dao is the incommunicable ability to be skillful at a craft.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Individuals may be skillful at handling certain money matters but inept at others, and they may not know which is which.

The New York Times

The men and women of the PAUL TAYLOR Dance Company manage not only to be skillful interpreters of Mr. Taylor's many moods but also recognizably human.

The New York Times

The exhibition's hook, optical illusions, can be skillful, with the double reading of a shape coming out only after long study, or cumbersome.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

Their strikes were skillful.

The New York Times

The carving is skillful.

The New York Times - Arts

And both are skillful mythmakers.

The New York Times

Even the dogs are skillful, dedicated workers.

The New York Times - Books

She is skillful and tactically smart.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When advising someone, use "be skillful" to encourage the development and application of specific skills for achieving a desired outcome.

Common error

Avoid using "be skillful" in contexts where innate talent is more relevant than learned ability; instead, consider phrases like "be talented" or "have a natural gift".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be skillful" functions as a directive or recommendation, urging someone to develop or exhibit competence in a particular area. Ludwig AI examples show it used in contexts ranging from artistic mediums to financial matters, highlighting its versatility.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Encyclopedias

12%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

15%

Formal & Business

7%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be skillful" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that encourages the development and demonstration of competence. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its versatility allows it to fit comfortably in various contexts, from News & Media to Encyclopedias, and even in more informal settings like Wikis. While alternatives like "be adept" or "be proficient" exist, understanding the nuances of each can enhance your writing. Remember to use "be skillful" when referring to acquired expertise rather than innate talent, and you'll effectively convey your intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be proficient

Synonymous, but offers a more formal tone.

be adept

Similar meaning, but uses a different adjective to describe skill.

be talented at

Highlights innate ability rather than learned skill.

possess expertise

Emphasizes having a high level of skill, shifting the focus from action to inherent ability.

be accomplished in

Suggests a high level of training and achievement.

demonstrate proficiency

Highlights the act of showing skill rather than just being skillful.

exhibit competence

Focuses on the quality of being adequately or well qualified.

have a knack for

Indicates a natural talent or aptitude.

excel at

Focuses on surpassing others in skill.

master the art of

Emphasizes a deep understanding and control of a skill.

FAQs

How can I use "be skillful" in a sentence?

You can use "be skillful" to advise someone to develop expertise in a particular area. For example: "To succeed, you must "be skillful" in your techniques and strategies."

What are some alternatives to saying "be skillful"?

Alternatives include "be adept", "be proficient", or "demonstrate proficiency" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "be skillful" or "have skill"?

While both are correct, "be skillful" emphasizes the active application of skill, whereas "have skill" simply indicates possession of it. The better choice depends on the intended emphasis.

When should I use "be skillful" versus "be talented"?

"Be skillful" is appropriate when referring to acquired expertise through practice and learning. "Be talented", on the other hand, is used when referring to an innate, natural ability.