neat ability

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "neat ability" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward to some readers.
It could be used to describe a skill or talent that is particularly organized or impressive, but it may require additional context to clarify its meaning. Example: "Her neat ability to solve complex problems quickly impressed everyone in the meeting."

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

She has a neat ability to make her descriptive sentences do double duty as jokes: "There was Henry in his hat out in back of both our stores, looking for something to take apart and never put back together".

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The antioxidants may explain one of tardigrades' neatest abilities.

BBC

The KS-110 does have one really neat feature: the ability to create a wireless link between the receiving unit and the stereo.

The New York Times - Tech

The above video shows off the neat but useless ability to change the LEDs of the mouse.

TechCrunch

Designing supraceramic assemblies based on Al2O3 has remained a challenge due to the problems associated with the suitable dispersion in neat compounds and ability to control the preferred orientation in a unique fashion.

Journal of Materials Processing Technology

A neat feature is the ability to choose up to three maps to display alongside one another.

The Guardian

Her main qualifications, other than the fact that no one else wants the job, are an innate, unsmiling bossiness, neat handwriting and her ability to perform, in a tentative, quavering voice, one song about Chairman Mao.

The New York Times

No, not Zynga: developer Tequila Mobile is the company responsible here, with asynchronous watery ship-battles against Facebook friends, complete with neat graphics and the ability to play across different devices.

The Guardian - Tech

Another neat feature is the ability to record altimeter measurements in conjunction with the stopwatch for cumulative ascent and descent altitudes and such.

TechCrunch

One neat feature is the ability to convert a PTT call to a standard cell call, including those with multiple people.

TechCrunch

One of the app's other neat features is its ability to play a YouTube video for all of your friends at the same time (and, of course, you can immediately talk about the video).

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a skill, consider replacing "neat ability" with stronger synonyms like "impressive skill" or "remarkable talent" for enhanced impact.

Common error

Avoid repetitive use of the phrase "neat ability". Vary your vocabulary by using synonyms like "skill", "talent", or "aptitude" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "neat ability" functions as a descriptive phrase, where "neat" modifies the noun "ability". This aims to highlight a particular quality of the mentioned ability. While Ludwig AI indicates it might sound awkward, it serves to describe a skill in a commendatory way.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

29%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "neat ability" describes a well-organized or impressive skill, but it is not a very common phrase. Ludwig AI notes that it might sound awkward, and is more appropriate to be used as "impressive skill" or "remarkable talent". While grammatically acceptable, it's more effective to consider stronger synonyms such as "impressive skill" or "exceptional aptitude". Its usage appears mainly in News & Media and Science contexts. To enhance your writing, vary your vocabulary and avoid repetitive use of the phrase. Remember that while understandable, using alternative phrases could provide more clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

impressive skill

Focuses more on the skill being notable or admirable.

remarkable talent

Emphasizes innate aptitude and exceptional quality.

exceptional aptitude

Highlights a natural inclination and skill.

considerable expertise

Focuses on acquired knowledge and proficiency.

notable competence

Underscores the quality of being adequately or well qualified.

adept proficiency

Highlights skill and dexterity in performance.

clever knack

Suggests an ingenious and resourceful ability.

ingenious talent

Highlights creativity and inventiveness in one's abilities.

admirable skill

Emphasizes the praiseworthy nature of the ability.

outstanding capability

Focuses on the exceptional and superior nature of the capacity.

FAQs

What does "neat ability" mean?

The phrase "neat ability" refers to a skill or talent that is particularly well-organized, efficient, or impressive. However, it might sound slightly awkward, so consider alternatives.

What are some alternatives to "neat ability"?

You can use alternatives like "impressive skill", "remarkable talent", or "exceptional aptitude" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "neat ability"?

While grammatically correct, "neat ability" is not the most common or impactful way to describe a skill. It's generally acceptable, but using stronger synonyms can improve your writing.

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

You can use "neat ability" to describe someone's talent or skill, for example: "She has a "neat ability" to solve complex problems quickly."