cultivate ability

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'cultivate ability' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when talking about improving a skill or taking steps to do so. For example, "I need to cultivate my public speaking ability if I want to be successful in my career."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

But they deliberate and choose with others about a public agenda, and in so doing they cultivate abilities to form a conception of a common good, to take principled stands, to exchange reasons with others, and to learn from others.

SEP

Both have at their core a dogmatic asseveration of their "special," cultivated ability of direct (not mediated by language or reasons) access to the single, correct, dao which cannot be cast in the form of "fixed" principles.

SEP

As he did in September in the shows introducing that record, Mr. Feinstein threw off the mantle of goody-good piano bar crooner to strut his assiduously cultivated abilities as a swinging big-band lounge singer hurling romantic aggression into the air.

The New York Times - Arts

But other motivating factors can come into play to inspire that grocery store cashier to give a little extra effort into her work day, put a bigger smile on her face, and cultivate the ability to stand out as a worker who exceeds her abilities.

Huffington Post

Which brings us to Unstated Rule No. 2: you should cultivate an ability to overlook the idiocy of your superiors.

The New York Times - Books

You intentionally put your body in postures that are right at the edge of discomfort and then cultivate the ability to stay there.

The New York Times

To the Editor: Thank goodness for high school teachers like Ann Rosenbaum who continue to cultivate students' ability to think deeply and critically!

The New York Times

When I speak to groups of grad students, I always urge them to cultivate an ability to write in several registers (through book reviews, blogs, journalism, and so on), even as they write their dissertations.

The New Yorker

Students learning new types of visual communication should cultivate their ability to comprehend media technology and create interaction using it.

Computers & Graphics

Take the "collaborative learning" for instance, which is regarded as an excellent way to carry out constructivism instruction and cultivate students' ability to work with others.

Smart Learning Environments

To cultivate students' ability to use the pharmacology principles in medical practice, case-oriented self-learning and review has partly replaced lecture-based teaching in our pharmacology course.

The American Journal of the Medical Sciences

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to "cultivate ability", focus on consistent practice and targeted learning. Break down the desired ability into smaller, manageable steps to track progress and maintain motivation. Seeking feedback from experts or peers can significantly accelerate the cultivation process.

Common error

Avoid assuming that ability is solely innate. While natural aptitude plays a role, neglecting the importance of dedicated effort and continuous learning can hinder the process of cultivating any skill. Remember that consistent practice is crucial for developing and refining abilities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cultivate ability" functions as a verb phrase followed by a noun, indicating the act of developing or improving a particular skill or competence. It's used to describe the process of intentionally fostering and refining a specific capability. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Missing

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cultivate ability" is a grammatically sound expression used to describe the process of developing and refining a particular skill or competence. While Ludwig has no exact matches for the phrase, its general construction and meaning are validated by the broader context of the provided search data, as well as the affirmation of its grammatical correctness. The phrase can be applied in numerous settings, from personal development to professional growth, with a neutral to professional register. To enrich your expression, consider related phrases such as "develop competence" or "enhance aptitude".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Develop competence

Focuses on achieving a specific level of skill or knowledge.

Enhance aptitude

Highlights improving a natural talent or inclination.

Nurture skill

Implies careful and sustained development of a particular skill.

Foster talent

Emphasizes creating an environment where talent can grow.

Improve proficiency

Stresses becoming more skilled or expert in a particular area.

Refine expertise

Suggests making small improvements to achieve a higher standard of skill.

Hone skill set

Implies sharpening or perfecting existing skills.

Build expertise

Focuses on the process of acquiring in-depth knowledge and skill.

Grow capacity

Highlights expanding one's overall capability in a specific area.

Advance skill

Suggests moving forward and progressing in skill development.

FAQs

How can I use "cultivate ability" in a sentence?

You can use "cultivate ability" to describe the process of developing a skill. For example, "To succeed in this role, you must "cultivate the ability" to communicate effectively."

What are some alternatives to "cultivate ability"?

Alternatives include "develop competence", "enhance aptitude", or "nurture skill", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "cultivate abilities" or "cultivate ability"?

Both are grammatically correct. "Cultivate abilities" refers to developing multiple skills, while "cultivate ability" refers to developing a single, specific skill.

What's the difference between "cultivate ability" and "develop ability"?

"Cultivate ability" suggests a more deliberate and nurturing approach to skill development, while "develop ability" ("develop ability") is a more general term for acquiring or improving a skill.