Noun A2 — Elementary /skɪl/

Skill — Definition, Examples & Pronunciation

The ability to do something well through training and practice — the goal of every language learner.

Quick Definition

Skill (noun) is the ability to do something well, especially as a result of practice or training. It can refer to a specific talent (a skill) or the general quality of being capable (skill).

What Does Skill Mean?

Skill comes from Old Norse skil (distinction, knowledge). In modern English it describes an acquired ability — something you develop rather than simply possess by birth. This is why skill is so closely linked with practice, learning, and effort.

Skills are often categorised as hard skills (technical, measurable abilities such as coding or accounting) and soft skills (interpersonal abilities such as communication or leadership). Both types are highly valued in professional contexts and feature prominently on CVs and in job interviews.

Key collocations: develop/build a skill, transferable skills, language skills, a skilled worker, skill set, and with great skill. These patterns appear constantly in academic and professional English.

Word in Use

SentenceUsage note
Reading is one of the most important skills for academic success.skill (countable) — a specific ability
The carpenter built the shelves with remarkable skill.skill (uncountable) — the quality of expertise
She has developed strong communication skills over the years.skills (plural) — several related abilities

Common Mistakes

Watch Out For

I need to improve my skill in speaking. (skill is too vague here)

I need to improve my speaking skills. (plural, with the specific type)

She has a great skil. (spelling error — double l)

She has a great skill. (always ends in double l)

Related Words

practice improve learn ability talent expertise

Practise This Word

Flash Cards Wordsearch Quiz

Frequently Asked Questions about “skill”

What does skill mean in English?
A skill is the ability to do something well, developed through training or experience. For example, 'reading is an important skill' or 'she has excellent communication skills'. Skill can be countable (a skill, skills) or uncountable when referring to the quality in general: 'the work was done with great skill'.
What is the difference between skill and ability?
Ability is the natural capacity to do something, while skill usually implies something that has been learned or developed through practice. You might have a natural ability for music, but playing the piano to a high level requires skill (hours of practice). Talent is similar to ability — more innate, less practised.
How do you use skill in a sentence?
Skill is commonly used in phrases like: 'develop a skill', 'learn a new skill', 'use your skills', 'a wide range of skills'. When plural, skills often appears in CVs and job descriptions: 'communication skills', 'problem-solving skills', 'interpersonal skills'. You can also say 'skilled at/in something'.
What is the CEFR level of skill?
Skill is an A2 (Elementary) word. It appears very early in English learning because it describes something central to the learning process itself. Phrases like 'language skills' and 'reading skills' are found in A2 coursebooks and tests, making this word both practical and motivating to learn early.
What are synonyms for skill?
Synonyms include: ability (general capacity), talent (innate aptitude), expertise (advanced skill in a field), competence (meeting a required standard), proficiency (high level of ability), craft (artisanal skill), and technique (specific method or approach). The plural skills is often synonymous with capabilities.
How do you pronounce skill?
Skill is pronounced /skɪl/ — one syllable. The 'sk' cluster at the start is pronounced as two consonants together (as in 'sky' or 'school'). The vowel is a short 'i' as in 'bit' or 'sit'. It rhymes with fill, will, and bill. Many learners incorrectly add an extra vowel — keep it as one tight syllable.
What are hard skills and soft skills?
Hard skills are specific, measurable technical abilities: coding, accounting, driving, or speaking a foreign language. Soft skills are interpersonal and behavioural abilities: communication, teamwork, leadership, and time management. Both are important in the workplace, and both types are described using the word 'skill' or 'skills'.
What does skilled mean?
Skilled is an adjective meaning highly trained or experienced: 'a skilled worker', 'a skilled negotiator'. The opposite is unskilled (having no special training) or semi-skilled (having basic training). You can also say 'skilled at/in something': 'She is skilled at problem-solving.' The adverb form is skilfully (British) or skillfully (American).
What is the plural of skill?
The plural is skills. When countable, you count individual abilities: 'I have developed three new skills this year.' When uncountable, skill refers to the general quality: 'The painting was executed with extraordinary skill.' Both forms are correct — context tells you which to use.
How can I practise the word skill on LexFizz?
Use LexFizz's Flash Cards to practise skill alongside related vocabulary like ability, talent, and improve. The Vocabulary Quiz checks your understanding in sentence context, and the Wordsearch helps you fix the double-l spelling. Building your vocabulary skills — fittingly — is exactly what LexFizz is designed to help with.