lesser skill

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lesser skill" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a skill that is considered to be of lower quality or proficiency compared to another skill. Example: "While he excels in advanced programming, he has only a lesser skill in graphic design."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Results: Contrary to the research hypothesis, it was found that the highly skilled batsmen were only distinguishable from batsmen of lesser skill by their higher degree of global mental toughness.

Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport

If screenwriting was a lesser skill, why couldn't they do it?

The New York Times

A poet of lesser skill would surely have wilted at the task — that such deadlines would kill the laureate's inspiration was a concern throughout the arduous selection of Andrew Motion's successor.

The New Yorker

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Vice

Therefore, given the potential savings in consumables, wastage, and operator time, as well as the lesser skill level needed, it would be reasonable to recommend the multi-puncture Tine as a screening tool for childhood TB in developing regions with limited funds, equipment, and a shortage of health care personnel.

Plosone

The results have implications for consideration of culturally acceptable options that increase demand or use of health workers with lesser skill levels.

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Not content with praise for his acting and directing, Billy Bob Thornton indulges his lesser skills: songwriting and what passes for singing.

The New York Times

But he was re-elected in 2006 despite a corruption scandal that would have felled a politician of lesser skills.

The Economist

To be clear, there is little question that more educated workers are likelier to capture some of the economy's growth than those with lesser skills or training.

The New York Times

As a result, a revolutionary change in the technology of airframe production occurred, shifting from "job shops" with craft labour to assembly lines with workers of lesser skills.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The "independent" filmmaker, Susser, straining for the brass ring of Sundance recognition and off-Hollywood distribution, seems as cynical as the propagandist Lu, but with lesser skills; the factitious premises of their films would have required extreme directorial interventions and inspirations to turn them into anything of merit.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing skills, use "lesser skill" to objectively denote a lower level of proficiency without necessarily implying a negative judgment. For instance, "While both candidates are proficient in data analysis, one possesses a "lesser skill" in statistical modeling."

Common error

Be mindful that using "lesser skill" can sometimes be perceived as dismissive. In contexts where tact is important, consider rephrasing to something like "developing skill" or "area for improvement" to avoid unintentional offense.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lesser skill" functions as a pre-modifier describing the noun "skill". It indicates that the skill being referred to is of a lower degree or quality compared to another skill or a general standard. Ludwig provides examples showing its use in comparing different abilities and assessing proficiency levels.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

17%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

8%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lesser skill" is a grammatically sound phrase used to denote a lower level of proficiency in a particular ability. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across various contexts, primarily in science, news, and encyclopedia domains. While objectively descriptive, it's advisable to use it with consideration, opting for alternatives like "developing skill" in sensitive scenarios. The phrase maintains a neutral register and is suitable for formal communication, although being mindful of its potential to be perceived negatively is essential.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

inferior skill

Replaces "lesser" with "inferior" emphasizing lower quality.

weaker skill

Substitutes "lesser" with "weaker" suggesting reduced strength or effectiveness.

reduced skill

Uses "reduced" instead of "lesser", focusing on the diminished quantity of skill.

limited skill

Replaces "lesser" with "limited" highlighting a restricted range of abilities.

deficient skill

Substitutes "lesser" with "deficient" indicating a lack or shortage of skill.

lower skill level

Expands the phrase to include "level", clarifying the degree of proficiency.

basic skill

Changes "lesser" to "basic" suggesting fundamental or elementary abilities.

rudimentary skill

Replaces "lesser" with "rudimentary" emphasizing a basic or underdeveloped skill.

undeveloped skill

Focuses on the lack of development of the skill.

beginner's skill

Specifies the skill as belonging to a beginner.

FAQs

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

You can use "lesser skill" to compare abilities, such as: "While she excels at writing, she admits to having a "lesser skill" in public speaking."

What's a more tactful way to say "lesser skill"?

Depending on the context, you could use terms like "developing skill", "area for improvement", or "needs more practice".

Is it appropriate to use "lesser skill" in a formal setting?

Yes, "lesser skill" is appropriate in formal settings, especially when providing objective assessments. However, ensure the tone remains professional and avoids sounding condescending. It's often used in professional evaluations or academic discussions.

What is the difference between "lesser skill" and "inferior skill"?

"Lesser skill" implies a smaller degree of proficiency, while "inferior skill" suggests a lower quality or standard. "Lesser" is often a more neutral and objective term.