facility with languages

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "facility with languages" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's skill or ease in learning and using different languages. Example: "Her facility with languages allowed her to communicate fluently in five different tongues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

In Catalonia, Mourinho's supreme facility with languages led to a translator's post, then a coaching role and finally the offer of a managerial job in Portugal.

The Guardian - Sport

Beyond their respective artistic talents, the books were enhanced by his easy access to top figures in culture and other fields and her great facility with languages.

The New York Times - Arts

Many monsters followed, both in England and in the rest of Europe, where Mr. Lee's exotic handsomeness and facility with languages proved an asset.

The New York Times

After the war Leigh Fermor continued to travel widely and he used his facility with languages, scholarship and extraordinary memory to good effect as an author.

The Economist

(A facility with languages — some biographies say she was conversant in French, German, Italian, Russian and Spanish — helped her task on a ship with many immigrants).

The New York Times

He served in the Pacific area with the 98th Infantry Division from 1942 to 1946, and his facility with languages led him to serve as a translator to aid in the repatriation of prisoners of war held by the Japanese, his wife said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

She has a wonderful facility with language – this could have been a monologue scripted by Alan Bennett.

The Guardian

For Vengerova, it was Hacks's facility with language that set him apart.

The New Yorker

But I regret I didn't have the facility with language that I have now.

The Guardian

He said Mr. Obama's facility with language gives him the ability to talk around governments directly to people.

The New York Times

He sang beautifully, and he had an immaculate sense of style and a matchless facility with language.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's language skills, specify the languages and the level of proficiency (e.g., "facility with French and Spanish at a conversational level").

Common error

Don't confuse "facility with languages" with simply knowing vocabulary or grammar rules. The phrase implies a practical, usable skill—being able to understand, speak, read, and write effectively in those languages.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "facility with languages" functions as a descriptor, indicating a person's aptitude or skill in handling multiple languages. Ludwig examples showcase its use in describing individuals' abilities in various professional and personal contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

17%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "facility with languages" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe someone's aptitude and ease in using multiple languages. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts. While not exceedingly common, it is found in reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian. Related phrases include "linguistic proficiency" and "language aptitude". When using the phrase, it's best to specify the languages and proficiency level to give a more accurate description.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

linguistic proficiency

Focuses on the skill in using languages, often in formal contexts.

language aptitude

Highlights the natural ability or talent for learning languages.

fluency in multiple languages

Emphasizes the ease and speed in using several languages.

conversant in several languages

Suggests a comfortable level of skill in conversation across multiple languages.

skilled in languages

A more general way to describe competence in languages.

multilingual competence

Highlights ability to use multiple languages effectively.

mastery of languages

Implies a very high level of expertise in multiple languages.

command of languages

Suggests a comprehensive and authoritative knowledge of languages.

adept at languages

Emphasizes skill and quickness in learning and using languages.

gifted in languages

Highlights a natural talent or gift for learning languages.

FAQs

How can I improve my "facility with languages"?

Immerse yourself in the language through reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Practice regularly, and seek opportunities to use the language in real-world contexts. Consider language exchange partners or study abroad programs.

What does it mean to have "facility with languages"?

Having "facility with languages" implies a natural aptitude and ease in learning and using multiple languages. It goes beyond basic knowledge and suggests a level of fluency and comprehension that allows for effective communication.

What are some alternative ways to say "facility with languages"?

You can use alternatives like "linguistic proficiency", "language aptitude", or "fluency in multiple languages" depending on the context.

Is "facility with language" the same as "facility with languages"?

"Facility with language" generally refers to skill and ease in using language in general, whereas "facility with languages" specifically refers to competence in multiple languages. The former is broader, while the latter is more specific.