honed skill

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "honed skill" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a skill that has been refined or perfected through practice and experience. Example: "After years of training, she finally showcased her honed skill in painting at the art exhibition."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

A natural aptitude is not the same as a well honed skill.

The Guardian - Opinion

His business plan, assuming a highly honed skill at instant social networking, is ingenious, it seems to me.

The New York Times

She was endlessly amusing, almost as if it was a honed skill, but she also got the joke, if there was one in the room.

The New York Times

Pettibon's graphic style is no style, a clunky mélange of cartooning and illustrational modes that lack honed skill and nuanced feeling.

The New Yorker

Ms. Foss brings that intensity, along with care and a finely honed skill, to her shop, Westchester Strings, which she started in 1989 in a studio she shared with her father in her parents' Briarcliff home.

The New York Times

"Piggott has shown such mastery, such beautifully honed skill and judgment since his stunning decision to come out of retirement," wrote Chris Hawkins in the Guardian, "that one wonders why he packed up in the first place as a mere stripling of 50".

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

These are beliefs honed not in fantasy but in honed skills.

Huffington Post

The Iraqi way is improvisational, relying less on honed skills and high-tech than gut instinct and (literally) bare knuckles.

The New York Times

Davis confirmed his reputation as the "grand old man" of British snooker when television audiences had an opportunity to admire his finely honed skills and remarkable techniques.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But his most forceful efforts involve objects and reflect finely honed skills that combine aspects of curator, window-dresser and eagle-eyed shopper.

The New York Times - Arts

But Mr. Kankuro, who also portrays Danshichi Kurobei, the show's impulsive hero, offers much more evidence of his precisely honed skills.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's capabilities, use "honed skill" to convey that their ability has been refined through dedicated practice and experience. It adds a sense of expertise and precision.

Common error

Avoid using "honed skill" to describe a natural talent or aptitude. This phrase is best reserved for abilities that have been actively developed and refined through effort.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "honed skill" functions as an adjective-noun compound, where "honed" modifies the noun "skill". It describes a specific quality of the skill, indicating that it has been refined or perfected through practice. As seen in Ludwig examples, it specifies the characteristic of abilities.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Encyclopedias

16%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "honed skill" is a grammatically sound expression used to describe an ability refined through dedicated practice. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and usability in English writing. While it's not extremely common, it appears frequently enough in news, encyclopedias, and scientific publications to be considered a valuable descriptor. To use "honed skill" effectively, focus on describing skills developed through effort rather than innate talents. Consider alternatives like "refined skill" or "well-developed skill" for variety and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

refined skill

Focuses on the removal of impurities or imperfections, suggesting a skill polished to a higher standard.

developed skill

Highlights the process of growth and advancement in proficiency.

sharpened skill

Emphasizes making the skill more acute or effective, like a blade.

mastered skill

Indicates a high level of competence and control over the skill.

polished skill

Suggests a skill refined to a high degree of elegance and proficiency.

cultivated skill

Implies nurturing and careful development of the skill over time.

perfected skill

Suggests the skill has been brought to its highest possible level of attainment.

improved skill

A general term indicating that the skill has become better than it was before.

advanced skill

Indicates progress to a higher level of expertise.

well-developed skill

Similar to developed skill but emphasizes the thoroughness of the development.

FAQs

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

You can say, "The chef's "honed skill" in knife work allows for precise vegetable cuts", or "Her "honed skill" in negotiation secured a favorable deal".

What's the difference between "honed skill" and "natural talent"?

"Honed skill" refers to an ability developed through practice, while "natural talent" is an inherent aptitude. You develop a "honed skill", but you possess a natural talent.

What can I say instead of "honed skill"?

Alternatives include "refined ability", "sharpened talent", or "well-developed skill", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "honed skill" in formal writing?

Yes, "honed skill" is appropriate for formal writing. It suggests expertise and dedication, making it suitable for professional or academic contexts.