demonstrate skill

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "demonstrate skill" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of showing or proving one's abilities or expertise in a particular area. Example: "In the final project, students are required to demonstrate skill in their chosen field of study."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Rather than having to demonstrate skill in creating new products, providing better services or motivating employees, these executives are usually judged by investors and analysts only by the swelling size of their empires.

The New York Times

Not only did they demonstrate skill on multiple kinds of drums, but they also sang and played other instruments traditionally reserved for men, hammering bouncy melodic-rhythmic phrases on marimbalike balafons.

The New York Times - Arts

Sophisticated cyber-criminals are stealing sensitive government information every day, Mr Blair explained, and state agencies often find shadowy presences on their networks—"the hallmark of an unknown adversary intending to do far more than merely demonstrate skill or mock a vulnerability".

The Economist

As with any technique that attempts to outwit the overall market, a track record of success is helpful to demonstrate skill (in this case the skill lies in developing the formula) going back at least a decade.

Forbes

To demonstrate skill and achievement, the imprimatur of an institution is not as meaningful.

Huffington Post

The examination includes scripted hands on examination with a human model where the trainee is required to demonstrate skill at image acquisition.

Annals of Intensive Care

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Each interviewer is trained to look for candidates who demonstrate skills from set criteria.

The Guardian

Along with traditional interviews, team selection days were incorporated, allowing candidates to demonstrate skills such as customer-service skills.

The Guardian

Those who succeed in business social work must demonstrate skills ranging from leadership and management to decision-making.

The Guardian

Some submit patches such as bug fixes (i.e., co-developers), which provides an opportunity to demonstrate skills and interest.

Journal of Internet Services and Applications

Teachers read to the class or demonstrate skills to introduce new information.

Unicef

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's abilities, use "demonstrate skill" with specific actions or tasks to provide context and strengthen the statement. For example, "The candidate effectively demonstrated skill in data analysis during the presentation."

Common error

Avoid using "demonstrate skill" as a generic statement without specific examples. Instead of saying "The employee demonstrated skill," specify the skill and situation: "The employee demonstrated skill in conflict resolution by mediating the team dispute."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "demonstrate skill" functions as a verb phrase used to describe the act of exhibiting or proving proficiency in a particular area. Ludwig confirms this usage, indicating that it is a valid and acceptable expression in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

28%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

12%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "demonstrate skill" is a grammatically sound and accepted expression for conveying proficiency. While Ludwig AI confirms its validity, its frequency remains uncommon. It is best utilized in neutral to professional contexts like News & Media, Science, and Wiki, where the aim is to highlight one's competencies, and should be supported by specific examples to avoid vagueness. Alternatives such as "exhibit proficiency", "show competence", and "display expertise" can be considered based on the nuances you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exhibit proficiency

Focuses on the level of expertise shown.

show competence

Emphasizes the ability to perform a task effectively.

display expertise

Highlights the specialized knowledge being shown.

prove ability

Implies a need to validate one's capabilities.

establish mastery

Suggests a high level of control and knowledge.

evidence aptitude

Focuses on natural talent or potential.

give proof of talent

Highlights the creative or innate ability being demonstrated.

bear witness to expertise

Emphasizes the observation of skill by others.

render visible the know-how

Uses formal tone to denote showcasing practical skills.

manifest capability

Emphasizes the tangible realization of ability.

FAQs

How can I use "demonstrate skill" in a sentence?

Use "demonstrate skill" to highlight someone's competence in a specific area. For example, "The surgeon demonstrated skill throughout the complex operation" or "The artist demonstrated skill in blending colors to create a realistic portrait".

What are some alternatives to "demonstrate skill"?

You can use alternatives like "exhibit proficiency", "show competence", or "display expertise" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "demonstrate skill" or "demonstrate skills"?

"Demonstrate skill" is used when referring to a general ability, while "demonstrate skills" is used when referring to multiple specific abilities. For example, "The candidate must demonstrate skill in leadership." versus "The candidate must demonstrate skills in communication, problem-solving, and teamwork".

What's the difference between "demonstrate skill" and "having skill"?

"Demonstrate skill" refers to the act of showing or proving competence, while "having skill" simply implies possession of that competence. One can "have skill" without necessarily "demonstrating skill".