low ability

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "low ability" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who is not good at a particular task or skill. For example, "The student is lacking in basic math skills and has a low ability in that subject."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

All teachers assessed themselves as having low ability of teaching.

Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences

More funds for low ability and troubled kids so they don't grow into thugs/criminals.

The Guardian

"Weaker" or "low ability" students have intervention timetables for almost every subject.

The Guardian

The high-quality people, however, know that their grades and references will distinguish them from those of low ability.

The Economist

Blatchford said studies showed class sizes of more than 30 were particularly damaging for children of low ability or those who had special needs.

The Guardian

Employees who worry that they'll be stereotyped as having low ability may be especially likely to avoid risks if only outcomes are valued.

Harvard Business Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

There are far fewer high grades-low ability students than low grades-low ability students.

Forbes

Close the attainment gap which sees low-ability wealthy children overtake high-ability poorer peers.

The Guardian

What about streaming in Kenyan schools, with high- and low-ability classes?

The Guardian - Opinion

Suppose the work force consists of low-ability individuals (burger flippers) and high-ability individuals (entrepreneurs), who perform complementary tasks.

The New York Times

An exploratory study contrasting high- and low-ability students' word problem solving: The role of schema-based instruction.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's "low ability", be specific about the area or task in which they lack proficiency. For example, "low ability in mathematics" is more informative than simply "low ability."

Common error

Be cautious when using the term "low ability" as it can be interpreted as judgmental or demeaning. Focus on specific skills or areas for improvement rather than making general statements about a person's abilities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "low ability" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, typically referring to a person or entity's capacity to perform a task or skill. As shown in Ludwig, it's used across various contexts to describe deficiencies in competence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

32%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "low ability" is a common phrase used to describe a lack of skill or competence, particularly in academic, scientific, and professional contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. While the phrase is generally acceptable, it's important to use it sensitively and specifically, focusing on areas for improvement rather than making broad generalizations. Consider alternatives like "limited capability" or "lack of skill" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Understanding the contexts and connotations of "low ability" allows for more effective and sensitive communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

limited capability

Focuses on the restriction in one's potential.

poor aptitude

Emphasizes a natural lack of talent for something.

weak competence

Highlights the deficiency in acquired skills.

deficient skill

Directly points out the lacking expertise.

inadequate proficiency

Stresses the insufficient level of skill.

subpar performance

Indicates a performance below the expected standard.

limited capacity

Emphasizes a restricted potential to do something.

reduced skill set

Highlights the limited range of abilities someone possesses.

lack of expertise

Focuses on the absence of specialized knowledge or skill.

underdeveloped talent

Suggests a talent that hasn't been fully realized.

FAQs

How can I use "low ability" in a sentence?

You can use "low ability" to describe a lack of skill or competence in a specific area. For example, "The student demonstrated "low ability" in solving complex equations."

What are some alternatives to saying "low ability"?

Alternatives include "limited capability", "poor aptitude", or "weak competence", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "low ability" or "lack of skill"?

"Lack of skill" is often perceived as more neutral and less judgmental than "low ability". It focuses on the absence of a skill rather than implying an inherent limitation.

What's the difference between "low ability" and "underdeveloped talent"?

"Low ability" suggests a general lack of capacity, while "underdeveloped talent" implies that potential exists but has not been fully realized or nurtured.