skill

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun skill contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of skill are artifice, art, craft, and cunning. While all these words mean "the faculty of executing well what one has devised," skill stresses technical knowledge and proficiency.

the skill of a glassblower

When could art be used to replace skill?

While in some cases nearly identical to skill, art implies a personal, unanalyzable creative power.

the art of choosing the right word

In what contexts can artifice take the place of skill?

While the synonyms artifice and skill are close in meaning, artifice suggests technical skill especially in imitating things in nature.

believed realism in film could be achieved only by artifice

When might craft be a better fit than skill?

The words craft and skill can be used in similar contexts, but craft may imply expertness in workmanship.

the craft of a master goldsmith

When is cunning a more appropriate choice than skill?

The synonyms cunning and skill are sometimes interchangeable, but cunning suggests ingenuity and subtlety in devising, inventing, or executing.

a mystery plotted with great cunning

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of skill Comments Paul Rudd and Seth Meyers have a particular set of skills… comedic skills that make recreating Liam Neeson’s very serious Taken monologue without laughing impossible. EW.com, 2 Apr. 2025 At the time, circa 2016, lace fronts were becoming more popular with influencers and artists, so Williamson honed his skills, learning to create a flawless install while blending in his love of color and trendy styles. Jessica Fields, Essence, 2 Apr. 2025 Tuesday’s sneak peek, of course, also displayed Pitt’s driving skills. Madeleine Marr, Miami Herald, 2 Apr. 2025 His skills include multimedia and data reporting and video and audio editing. Robert A. Cronkleton, Kansas City Star, 2 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for skill
Recent Examples of Synonyms for skill
Noun
  • The project represents a milestone for Naga cinema, blending international filmmaking expertise with local narratives and talent.
    Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 7 Apr. 2025
  • The analysis used to create the interactive map comes from 234 climate experts from 64 countries, as well as a 2022 U.S. climate report that synthesized data and expertise from eight governmental agencies.
    Bill Kearney, Sun Sentinel, 7 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Joey Merlo’s cunning, captivating On Set With Theda Bara first lit its murky lights at the Brick a year ago — and now, in a heartening example of institutional collaboration, the Transport Group and the Lucille Lortel Theatre have pitched in as presenters to bring it back for an encore performance.
    Sara Holdren, Vulture, 14 Feb. 2024
  • For Mirren, the cunning and cruelty of Whitfield is a timely example of power corrupting absolutely.
    Hunter Ingram, Variety, 23 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • With annual trading volumes now reportedly exceeding $3 trillion, Xia sees AI integration as the next frontier for cryptocurrency exchanges in 2025, potentially redefining trading experiences for both newcomers and experienced traders.
    Sean Lee, Forbes.com, 4 Apr. 2025
  • About Athena Elite Sports: With over 20 years of experience in youth programming, Athena prepares students for the all-important transition from high school to college through programs and activities that inspire academic and sporting development, personal growth and cultural understanding.
    Sportico Staff, Sportico.com, 3 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • My proficiency in calculus and analytics led me to study economics as an undergraduate student and then to pursue an MBA in finance.
    Harry Kraemer, Forbes.com, 7 Apr. 2025
  • His all-round game is now beginning to match his proficiency in front of goal, which has brought four goals in his last three games.
    Steve Madeley, New York Times, 7 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Fans have suggested that Justin chose the number 22 for the body art as a tribute to his wife, 28, who celebrates her birthday on Nov. 22, and possibly their son Jack Blues Bieber.
    Ingrid Vasquez, People.com, 1 Apr. 2025
  • From developing Michelin-starred Duddell’s restaurant to co-founding Design Trust and chairing Para Site art center, Alan Lo has helped to redefine Hong Kong’s culinary and cultural scenes.
    Y-Jean Mun-Delsalle, ARTnews.com, 1 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Her Elsa Peretti for Tiffany tassel pendant adds a layer of tasteful artistry.
    Talia Abbas, Vogue, 28 Mar. 2025
  • The restaurant features an expansive open kitchen, allowing diners a glimpse into the artistry of Chef Solomonov’s team.
    Caroline Tell, Forbes, 26 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • The budding talent had turned in the finest start of his big-league career to date Saturday, taming the Philadelphia Phillies in a raucous ballpark.
    Fabian Ardaya, New York Times, 6 Apr. 2025
  • Director Roshan Sethi and all the talent have been fantastic.
    Matt Minton, Variety, 6 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Skill.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/skill. Accessed 13 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on skill

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