became skilled in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "became skilled in" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing the process of acquiring expertise or proficiency in a particular area or skill. Example: "After years of practice, she became skilled in playing the piano."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

He became skilled in textiles and later worked with Giorgio Armani and Miuccia Prada.

The New York Times

Mr. Moore said that he became skilled in the specialized tasks that all agents learn who protect the president.

The New York Times

Just like their male counterparts, they became skilled in keeping babies steady by fair means or foul.

The Guardian - Arts

Forced to leave school because of economic problems, Adriana began working in a photography studio, where she became skilled in all aspects of this trade.

Columbia University

Later, in defiance of her advancing years she became skilled in using the computer for email, creating her own holiday cards, and surfing the web.

The New York Times

Mr. Cushing was born in Manhattan and graduated from Avon Old Farms School, a boarding school in Avon, Conn., where he became skilled in polo.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Skills learned: Research assistants on this project will become skilled in researching state-level public policy, using session law databases, state statutes, roll call voting data, and lobbying and campaign finance data.

University of California, Berkeley

After you become skilled in using positive prompts and praise for simple tasks, you can learn to encourage higher-level organizational skills in your kids, too.

University of California, Berkeley

They become skilled in the use of data management systems, the conceptual basis of statistical analysis, and the programs and techniques required to analyze their own data.

Cornell University

As a child, she was a diligent student with an obsessive streak: her first passion was dancing; later, she would become skilled in the sport of fencing.

The Guardian - Film

The student will have the opportunity to become skilled in clinical research at McLean Hospital related to Neuropsychiatric clinical research, specifically related to PTSD, Depression, and Anxiety, and to gain a working knowledge of a variety of neurophysiological approaches.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "became skilled in", ensure that the specific skill or area of expertise is clearly identified to provide context and clarity for the reader. For example: "She became skilled in data analysis through intensive workshops."

Common error

Avoid using "became skilled in" in overly passive constructions. Instead of saying "The technique became skilled in by many", opt for a more direct approach like "Many became skilled in the technique".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "became skilled in" functions as a verb phrase indicating the acquisition of competence or expertise. It describes a process where someone develops proficiency in a particular area. As Ludwig highlights, it's a grammatically correct expression widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Academia

32%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Science

9%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "became skilled in" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to describe the process of acquiring proficiency. Ludwig's analysis confirms its correctness and usability across various writing contexts. While several alternatives exist, such as "gained proficiency in" or "mastered", the choice depends on the desired nuance. The frequency of its appearance in news, academic, and wiki sources underscores its widespread acceptance. When deploying the phrase, prioritize clarity by specifying the skill and avoiding passive constructions. Thus, leveraging "became skilled in" with precision enriches the content by effectively illustrating the development of expertise.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mastered

Implies a high level of expertise, suggesting complete control and understanding.

gained proficiency in

Focuses on achieving a competent level of skill, emphasizing the process of improvement.

developed expertise in

Highlights the growth and accumulation of specialized knowledge and skill.

acquired competence in

Emphasizes obtaining the necessary abilities to perform effectively.

became proficient in

Similar to gaining proficiency, but suggests a more advanced level of skill.

excelled in

Indicates exceptional performance and superior skill.

became adept at

Suggests a natural talent or quickness in learning and performing.

cultivated expertise in

Implies careful and deliberate development of skills over time.

honed skills in

Focuses on refining and perfecting existing abilities through practice.

became conversant in

Implies becoming familiar and knowledgeable, often in the context of a subject or field.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "became skilled in"?

You can use alternatives like "gained proficiency in", "mastered", or "developed expertise in" depending on the context.

How do I use "became skilled in" in a sentence?

Use "became skilled in" to describe the process of acquiring expertise or proficiency in a specific area. For example: "After years of practice, he became skilled in playing the guitar."

Is it better to use "became skilled in" or "became skillful in"?

Both "became skilled in" and "became skillful in" are correct and usable, but "skilled" is more commonly used and generally preferred in modern English. The choice often depends on personal preference or stylistic considerations.

What's the difference between "became skilled in" and "became proficient in"?

"Became skilled in" generally implies acquiring a basic level of competence, while "became proficient in" suggests a higher level of expertise and efficiency. Proficiency indicates a more advanced stage of skill development.