A skill is an ability developed through learning and practice.

The idea

The countable noun skill has singular a skill and plural skills. Say develop a skill or communication skills.

Examples

  • Cooking is a useful skill.
  • The course develops practical skills.
  • Our guide has excellent map-reading skills.
  • You can improve this skill with practice.
  • The job requires good communication skills.
  • Painting taught the children a new skill.

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Watch out

Do not use the singular after several when you mean multiple abilities.

Try it yourself

  1. Choose the best word. The workshop builds useful ___. (skill / skills)

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    skills

    skills fits the plural meaning of useful abilities.

  2. Choose the best word. Listening is an important ___. (skill / skills)

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    skill

    skill names one ability after an important.

  3. Choose the best word. Regular practice can ___ a skill. (improve / lose)

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    improve

    improve expresses making the ability better.

Use it today

Describe a skill you are improving and how you practise.