become adept

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "become adept" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the process of gaining skill or proficiency in a particular area or activity. Example: "With consistent practice, you will become adept at playing the piano."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

I've become adept at seeming shorter.

The New York Times

They become adept at manipulation.

The Guardian - Opinion

You have become adept at provoking crowds.

The Guardian - Music

Eventually, some become adept at identifying even tiny finds.

The New York Times - Science

Mr. Obama has become adept at jawboning insurers.

The New York Times

Politicians, like marketers, have become adept at identifying likely customers.

The Economist

Over fifteen years, Rowan had become adept at it.

The New Yorker

She had become adept at politely diverting such inquiries.

The Guardian

And they have become adept at heading it off.

The New York Times - Health

We widows and widowers become adept at magical thinking.

The New Yorker

You become adept at knowing what someone's intentions are".

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "become adept" to describe a gradual process of skill development, implying that effort and practice are involved. For example: "Through consistent training, they will "become adept" at data analysis."

Common error

Avoid using "become adept" when describing an innate ability. This phrase is best suited for skills acquired through learning, not natural gifts. Instead, consider terms like "possess a natural talent" or "be gifted in".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "become adept" functions as a verb phrase indicating the process of acquiring skill or proficiency in a particular area. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase describes the development of expertise through effort and practice.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Formal & Business

16%

Science

11%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Academia

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "become adept" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to describe the process of gaining expertise through learning and practice. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's frequently found in news and media, business contexts, and scientific discussions. While highly adaptable, it is most appropriate when describing skills acquired over time, rather than innate abilities. For alternative phrasing, consider options like "develop expertise" or "gain proficiency", tailoring your choice to fit the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember to use "become adept at" to clearly link the skill with the area of expertise.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

become proficient

A direct synonym, indicating a good level of skill.

develop expertise

Focuses on developing a high level of skill and knowledge.

gain proficiency

Emphasizes the process of acquiring competence.

acquire mastery

Focuses on the achievement of comprehensive skill.

master the skill

Highlights achieving a high level of mastery.

cultivate competence

Suggests a deliberate and careful development of ability.

hone one's skills

Implies refining existing skills to a finer degree.

grow skilled

Emphasizes the gradual development of skills over time.

excel at

Focuses on outstanding performance in a particular area.

get the hang of

Implies learning how to do something, often through practice.

FAQs

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

"Become adept" describes the process of gaining skill or proficiency through practice or learning. For instance: "With consistent effort, you can "become adept at coding"."

What can I say instead of "become adept"?

Alternatives include "become proficient", "gain expertise", or "develop skill". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "become adept at" or "become adept in"?

"Become adept at" is generally preferred because it directly links the process of becoming skilled with a specific activity or area. "Become adept in" is also correct, but less common.

What's the difference between "become skilled" and "become adept"?

While both describe improving ability, "become adept" suggests a higher level of expertise and finesse compared to simply "become skilled". Adept implies a certain level of artistry or mastery.