primary skill

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "primary skill" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to the most important or fundamental skill that someone possesses, often in a professional or educational context. Example: "In this role, your primary skill will be your ability to communicate effectively with clients."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

Improvisation is a primary skill on the Crow Creek reservation.

The New York Times - Sports

"They're specifically trained to do that and that's their primary skill set".

The Guardian

Biden had a stutter as a child but eventually succeeded in a career where public speaking was a primary skill.

The New Yorker

He could do with importing the stillness and ball watching so evident in his fielding into his primary skill – his batting.

The Guardian - Sport

Other jazz singers can do this; jazz singing is an academic subject now and using one's range is basic, a primary skill.

The New York Times

Since then, its sole product has been a game called Joe Danger, about a down-and-out stuntman whose primary skill is jumping over stuff with a motorcycle.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

Leon Botstein President, Bard College "The primary skills should be analytical skills of interpretation and inquiry.

The New York Times

Clearly identify your primary skills and areas of expertise and use these as your unique selling point.

The Guardian

That Keys's primary skills aren't political is a boon to the vast number of Madisonians, left and right, for whom politics remains a diverting spectator sport.

The New Yorker

"Assets are beginning to migrate away from people whose primary skills were getting assets off of the government, to a new group of owners whose main skill is managing assets".

The New York Times

Being a deadly shot with either hand and knowing how to make the moves and fakes that clear away the defense are the primary skills of a basketball player, and any player who can do these things half as well as Bradley can has all the equipment he needs to make a college team.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a job or role, clearly state the "primary skill" required to set expectations and guide training efforts.

Common error

Avoid equating secondary skills with the "primary skill". Ensure that you clearly differentiate the most crucial skill from supporting or less essential abilities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "primary skill" functions as a noun phrase that identifies the most important or fundamental ability. Ludwig's examples show it describing essential competencies in various fields, from boxing to jazz singing.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

32%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Unknown

20%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "primary skill" is a common and versatile way to identify the most important ability needed in a given situation. Ludwig AI analysis confirms that it is grammatically correct and frequently used across various domains, including news media, science, and general knowledge. When using "primary skill", ensure you clearly differentiate it from secondary skills and provide specific examples to illustrate its significance. Consider using alternatives like "core competency" or "key ability" for variety, but maintain clarity in conveying the central skill required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

core competency

This term is often used in a business context to describe a fundamental skill or capability.

key ability

Focuses on the ability aspect, emphasizing the importance of the skill.

main proficiency

Highlights the level of expertise in a particular skill.

essential skill

Stresses the necessity of the skill for a specific purpose or role.

fundamental ability

Emphasizes the foundational nature of the skill.

chief expertise

Implies a high level of skill and specialization.

principal talent

Highlights a natural aptitude or gift.

major strength

Indicates a skill that provides a significant advantage.

leading aptitude

Suggests a natural inclination and skill in a particular area.

primary forte

Highlights a skill at which someone excels.

FAQs

How can I effectively describe a "primary skill" in a resume?

Clearly state the "primary skill" and provide specific examples of how you've utilized it to achieve results. Quantify your achievements whenever possible to demonstrate your proficiency.

What's the difference between a "primary skill" and a secondary skill?

A "primary skill" is the most important or fundamental ability needed for a specific task or role, while a secondary skill is supplementary and supports the primary one. Consider how "essential skill" also distinguishes itself from supporting skills.

How to improve my "primary skill"?

Focus on targeted practice, seek feedback from experts, and continuously learn and adapt to new techniques and technologies related to your "primary skill".

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "primary skill"?

You can use alternatives like "core competency", "key ability", or "main proficiency" depending on the context.