skill Definition
skill (skil)
noun
- great ability or proficiency; expertness that comes from training, practice, etc.
- an art, craft, or science, esp. one involving the use of the hands or body
- ability in such an art, craft, or science
- Obsolete knowledge, understanding, or judgment
Etymology: ME, discernment, reason < ON skil, distinction, akin to skilja, to cut apart, separate < IE base *(s)kel-, to cut (> shield, shell): basic sense “ability to separate,” hence “discernment”
intransitive verb
Archaic to matter, avail, or make a difference
skill Synonyms
skill
n.
Ability
dexterity, facility, craft; see ability 1, 2, art 1, experience 3, talent.Trade
occupation, work, craft; see job 1, profession 1, trade 2. See syn. study at art.
skill Usage Examples
Converse of object
- develop: Have you shown you have developed the skills the job needs?
- acquire: This included using SIM man where their newly acquired skills were tested!
- learn: The National Archives online in-depth learning guides can also help you learn basic Latin skills.
- require: No skills required - we will provide full training How much time do I need to commit?
- teach: You will also be taught appropriate skills to help in an emergency.
Adjective modifier
- transferable: The program offers teaching, learning and assessment methods which develop subject specific skill and transferable key skills.
- basic: You are here: Home Embedded Basic Skills Why should VCS get involved?
- interpersonal: Applicants must be well organized with good interpersonal skills.
- Key: We accept a maximum of 20 points from Level 3 Key Skills.
- practical: Music software can allow students access to music composition without the need for formal theoretical or practical skills.
- technical: NB The focus is on content, not technical skills!
Modifies a noun
- shortage: There is a national problem of skills shortages in the construction industry.
- gap: As the training program will be modular staff may opt for top-up training in areas where a skills gap is identified.
- council: Interested Sector Skills Councils are reminded that the closing date for this funding is Friday 21 April 2006.
Noun used with modifier
- communication: Drama also boosts the communication skills of students with special needs.
- literacy: Once you've got the literacy skills the ability to write freely is innate.
- leadership: Key essential skills you will need to demonstrate include excellent customer service and strong leadership skills.
- numeracy: The site is based on popular children's stories and supports early literacy and numeracy skills.
- presentation: Internal courses cover such skills as business winning, presentation skills and giving appraisals.
- language: There is no better way to improve your language skills than to immerse yourself in the culture.

