real skill

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "real skill" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize genuine talent or expertise in a particular area or activity. Example: "Her ability to solve complex problems quickly demonstrates her real skill as a mathematician."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That's real skill.

The Guardian

That takes real skill.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

That reflected his real skill: making connections.

The New York Times - Sports

"There's a real skill to it".

The New York Times - Tech

But his real skill was myth-making.

The Guardian - Opinion

And that requires a real skill.

Harvard Business Review

The good mystery writer's real skill lies in clarification".

Independent

But his real skill was in making cakes.

The New York Times

(Typically, he characterises these naked puppets with real skill).

The Guardian

I just think it is a real skill," she explains.

The Guardian

Canada are playing with real skill here in testing circumstances.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "real skill" to emphasize that the ability being described is not superficial or easily acquired, but rather a genuine and significant talent.

Common error

Avoid using "real skill" as a general compliment. Instead, specify the area where the skill is evident to give your praise more impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "real skill" functions as a noun phrase, where "real" serves as an adjective modifying the noun "skill". Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It typically describes a tangible and demonstrable ability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Formal & Business

18%

Science

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "real skill" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to emphasize the genuine and significant nature of an ability. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It appears frequently in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science contexts, indicating its versatility. Alternatives include "genuine ability" and "true talent". While widely applicable, it's best used when highlighting abilities that are not superficial or easily attained. Overusing it as generic praise should be avoided for stronger impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

genuine ability

Emphasizes the authenticity and legitimacy of the skill.

true talent

Highlights the inherent and natural aspect of the skill.

considerable expertise

Focuses on the depth and breadth of knowledge and proficiency.

remarkable competence

Stresses the high level of proficiency and capability.

significant aptitude

Points to a natural inclination and potential for the skill.

masterful proficiency

Suggests a high level of control and artistry in the skill.

exceptional dexterity

Highlights the physical or mental agility involved in the skill.

proven capability

Emphasizes that the skill has been demonstrated and validated.

developed expertise

Highlights that the skill has been built over time with effort.

demonstrated prowess

Focuses on the high level of skill and accomplishment.

FAQs

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

You can use "real skill" to emphasize that someone possesses a genuine and significant ability in a particular area. For example, "Her ability to solve complex problems quickly demonstrates her "real skill" as a mathematician".

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

You can use alternatives like "genuine ability", "true talent", or "considerable expertise" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "real skill" or "true skill"?

Both ""real skill"" and "true skill" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning, but ""real skill"" is more commonly used.

What's the difference between "real skill" and "developed skill"?

"Real skill" implies a natural or inherent ability, while "developed skill" suggests that the ability has been acquired and improved through practice and experience.