facility with words

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "facility with words" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's skill or ease in using language effectively, particularly in writing or speaking. Example: "Her facility with words allows her to express complex ideas clearly and persuasively."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

General Writing

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

You might have a facility with words or numbers or for connecting people or public speaking.

The Guardian

Jones has none of Williams's emotional heft or her facility with words.

The New Yorker

Ahlberg believes that his facility with words must be genetic, a gift from his birth parents.

The Guardian

Mayor Cory A. Booker has brought to his labors here a magical facility with words.

The New York Times

Usually facility with words trickles down; children hear and absorb parents' expanded vocabulary and discussions.

The New York Times

Trenet's facility with words and music soon brought commissions from established stage and recording artists.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

Yet it is precisely his lack of facility with the spoken word which makes him a man of the people.

The Guardian - Opinion

Rather than respond, Lincoln essentially ignored Taney, instead choosing to defend his actions in a July 4 message to Congress that lacked the new president's customary facility with the written word.

The New York Times

And as Benj became more connected to others, more socially adept and more verbally fluent, his extraordinary progress was in large part enabled by his attraction to and facility with the written word.

The New York Times - Books

"He has a great facility with a particular set of words, like 'baseline,'nondefensese discretionary' and things like that".

The New York Times

An academic education (the head) starts with the basics of literacy and numeracy, then builds out to a deep love of words and facility with the English language.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "facility with words" when you want to emphasize someone's natural talent or ease in using language, rather than just their formal training or knowledge.

Common error

Avoid using "facility with words" in highly technical or scientific contexts where precision and accuracy are paramount. Instead, opt for terms like "technical proficiency" or "expertise" to convey specific skills.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "facility with words" functions as a descriptor, highlighting an individual's aptitude and skill in using language. As Ludwig AI points out, it denotes a talent for expressing thoughts and ideas effectively. The examples showcase its use in describing writers, speakers, and anyone adept at using language.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Books

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "facility with words" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe someone's skill and ease in using language effectively. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across various contexts. It is most frequently found in news and media, as well as in discussions about books. While versatile, it's important to consider the specific context when choosing this phrase over alternatives like "verbal dexterity" or "linguistic proficiency". Avoid using it in highly technical contexts where precision is key. By understanding its nuances and usage patterns, you can confidently incorporate "facility with words" into your writing and speech.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

verbal dexterity

Refers to agility and skill in using language, often implying quickness and cleverness.

linguistic proficiency

Focuses on competence and mastery of language, often in a more formal or academic context.

articulateness

Highlights the ability to express oneself clearly and effectively.

eloquence

Emphasizes the beauty and persuasiveness of language.

command of language

Suggests a high degree of control and mastery over language.

verbal fluency

Emphasizes the ease and flow of speech.

mastery of expression

Focuses on the complete control and skill in conveying thoughts and feelings through language.

gift for gab

An informal term for being skilled at talking, often in a charming or persuasive way.

rhetorical skill

Highlights the ability to use language effectively for persuasive or impactful communication.

penchant for words

Indicates a natural inclination and fondness for using language effectively.

FAQs

How can I use "facility with words" in a sentence?

You can use "facility with words" to describe someone's skill in using language effectively, for example: "Her facility with words allowed her to excel as a novelist."

What's a more formal alternative to "facility with words"?

A more formal alternative could be "linguistic proficiency", which emphasizes competence and mastery of language in a formal setting.

Is "facility with words" only applicable to writing?

No, "facility with words" can apply to both writing and speaking. It describes a general skill in using language effectively, whether written or spoken.

What is the difference between "facility with words" and "verbal fluency"?

"Facility with words" implies a broader skill in using language effectively, while "verbal fluency" specifically refers to the ease and flow of speech.