skill of which

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "skill of which" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward.
It can be used when referring to a specific skill in a more formal or literary context, but it is often better to rephrase for clarity. Example: "He demonstrated a skill of which few are capable."

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

The pair were typical of their age group in adopting a 'middle-of-the-road' strategy as a deliberate way of making allowances for their reduced drivings skill, of which they were aware.

The Guardian

It involves working with different workmates, facing the daunting challenge of learning a new skill, mourning for the lost opportunity to perform a skill of which one was once proud, and so on.

Encyclopedia Britannica

For Baldwin's outstanding political skill, of which his bucolic and domestic persona was only part and not the chief part, see Williamson, P., 1999.

SEP

The Pennsylvania Inquirer printed that "it proves Mr Poe to be a man of genius... with an inventive power and skill, of which we know no parallel".

Wikipedia

Behind this air attack will follow sea and land forces in such numbers and power as they have not yet seen and with the fighting skill of which they are already well aware".

Wikipedia

"Having completed the process of going through all of Mother's papers in the library of Cotswold by the Sea, her Moss Point home since 1963, I am stunned at the breadth of her interests and skill of which she gave unstintingly to the community and was warmly loved in return," Hutchins wrote in her book.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

It's the sort of basic marketing skill at which Lukas is a master.

The New York Times

Indeed, reducing that glut will require just the sort of political skills of which he is a master.

The Economist

"If people say they get their news from us then it's an indictment of news shows rather than a compliment on our journalistic skills, of which we have very few".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

According to Caudle, the director of the Santa Cruz programme, would-be natural science illustrators need to develop a range of artistic, scientific, and "soft" skills, of which the ability to illustrate is only the most obvious.

Science Magazine

With the modern emphasis on highlight-reel skills, of which Bryant has an abundance, there's still nothing more important than the ability to shoot.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "skill of which", ensure it fits the formal tone of your writing. In many cases, simpler alternatives like "skill that" offer better clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "skill of which" in informal contexts. The phrase can sound stilted in everyday conversation or casual writing; opt for more natural phrasing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "skill of which" functions as a relative clause, modifying a noun (skill) to provide additional information or context. It helps to specify or elaborate on the nature or extent of a previously mentioned ability. As Ludwig AI states, this phrase is not commonly used and may sound awkward.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

9%

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "skill of which" serves as a relative clause, elaborating on a particular skill. As Ludwig AI highlights, it is not a very common construction and may sound somewhat awkward. While grammatically acceptable, simpler alternatives like "skill that" are often preferred for clarity. It appears most frequently in news and media, science, and encyclopedic contexts, indicating a formal or neutral tone. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure its usage aligns with the writing's overall tone and context. If aiming for a more conversational style, consider using skill that.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

skill that

Replaces "of which" with "that" for a more direct and common phrasing.

skill in which

Substitutes "of which" with "in which", focusing on the area where the skill is applied.

the skill that they possess

Adds emphasis on possession and a more descriptive tone.

a skill that is evident

Highlights the obvious presence of the skill.

skill, and this skill

Breaks the phrase into two separate clauses for emphasis.

a particular skill

Emphasizes the specificity of the skill.

the skill that is required

Focuses on the necessity of the skill.

skills they demonstrated

Shifts focus to demonstrated abilities.

their expertise

Uses a single word to replace the entire phrase, implying skill.

the capability they have

Highlights the ability or capacity associated with the skill.

FAQs

What does "skill of which" mean?

The phrase "skill of which" refers to a particular ability or expertise that is being discussed or highlighted. It is often used in more formal or literary contexts.

How can I use "skill of which" in a sentence?

You can use "skill of which" to add detail to a skill that you already mentioned. For instance: "He demonstrated a remarkable skill, the precision "skill of which" impressed everyone."

What are some alternatives to "skill of which"?

Alternatives include phrases like "skill that", "skill in which", or simply rephrasing the sentence for better clarity.

When is it appropriate to use "skill of which" versus "skill that"?

"Skill of which" is more formal and less common. "Skill that" is generally preferred for its simplicity and directness in most contexts.