hand skills

USAGE SUMMARY

"hand skills" is correct and can be used in written English.
For example, you might use the phrase in a job posting: "This position requires excellent hand skills and manual dexterity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

"It has already replaced hand skills.

The New York Times

The radio, therefore, leaves users to depend totally on delicate hand skills to turn the manual module in tiny movements.

The Guardian

As the boys go through the drills, what immediately sets Lovett-Murray apart from the rest is the hand skills.

The Guardian - Sport

They were turning out very sophisticated work with very simple tools — the definition of great hand skills.

The New York Times

It's all hand skills, reading drawings, reading instructions," said Deer, a Siemens group leader with expertise in assembly work in metal, wood and fibreglass.

The Guardian - Business

Not that this was an assembly line — the things that couldn't be done by machine required hand skills or human judgment.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

'Without hand skill I never think of or have courage to do it.

Fashion and Textiles

Participants who think they have no hand skill or need specific skills for up-cycling of clothes were passive about up-cycling, but told their intention of participation, telling they need education program about up-cycling.

Fashion and Textiles

Rather than focus on the entire volume of the KNOB region, in this study we examined whether the variation in hand skill were linked to lateralization in grey and white matter within the KNOB.

Plosone

Here we report a GWAS for a quantitative measure of relative hand skill (peg-board task).

Human Molecular Genetics

However, no convincing association has been found between either hand preference or hand skill and neurodevelopmental disorders (8, 9).

Human Molecular Genetics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing job requirements, use "hand skills" to emphasize the need for manual dexterity and precision in tasks.

Common error

Avoid using "hand skills" metaphorically when referring to non-manual abilities. Instead, use terms like "technical skills" or "communication skills" for abstract competencies.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hand skills" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject or object in a sentence. It refers to the abilities and proficiencies one possesses in using their hands effectively, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

42%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "hand skills" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase, denoting the abilities and proficiencies related to using one's hands. According to Ludwig, it finds common usage in contexts such as news, scientific research, and formal business communications. The phrase is considered neutral in register, making it versatile for varied audiences. To enhance your writing, concentrate on using "hand skills" in situations that explicitly require manual dexterity and precision, and avoid using it metaphorically. You can also consider alternative phrases, such as "manual dexterity", depending on the specific nuance you intend to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

manual dexterity

Focuses on the dexterity aspect of hand skills, emphasizing agility and precision.

craftsmanship

Highlights the skill involved in creating something by hand.

manual proficiency

Emphasizes competence in using one's hands for tasks.

fine motor skills

Focuses on the precise movements of the hands and fingers.

dexterous hands

Highlights the ability of the hands to perform tasks with skill and ease.

sleight of hand

Specifically refers to skillful deception or trickery with the hands.

artisan skills

Relates to skills used in traditional crafts and handmade items.

technical skills

Emphasizes the technical knowledge and expertise behind using the hands.

practical skills

Focuses on the ability to use one's hands to accomplish practical tasks.

manipulative skills

Highlights the ability to handle and control objects skillfully.

FAQs

How can I improve my "hand skills"?

Practice activities that require fine motor control, such as playing musical instruments, drawing, or crafting. Consistent practice will enhance your dexterity and precision.

What are some professions that require excellent "hand skills"?

Professions like surgeons, dentists, artists, watchmakers, and craftspeople all demand high levels of "hand skills". These roles require precision, dexterity, and control.

What is the difference between "hand skills" and "manual dexterity"?

"Hand skills" is a broader term encompassing various abilities involving the hands, while "manual dexterity" specifically refers to the agility and coordination of hand movements.

Are "hand skills" genetic or can they be learned?

While some individuals may have a natural predisposition for certain "fine motor skills", "hand skills" can be significantly developed and improved through targeted practice and training.