skill

Definition of skillnext

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 Thrilling, to find a new author with an appetite for the whole spectrum of living, and the skill to get it down true. Gabrielle Bellot, Literary Hub, 30 June 2026 The partnership will officially kick off with a four-session series for GFS Fellows, equipping them with critical skills in sound recording, listening, and community building. Arushi Jacob, Variety, 30 June 2026 They’re usually hired and rewarded for deep technical expertise, not for their presentation skills. William Arruda, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026 People Skills and Communication Communication is an essential professional and personal skill, but educators say many students struggle with it. Jillian Pretzel, Parents, 30 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for skill
Recent Examples of Synonyms for skill
Noun
  • After taking over hosting duties from Padma Lakshmi in season 21, Kish is now the undeniable face of the series, one that represents the continuously evolving future of its programming, which prioritizes culinary skillfulness.
    McKinley Franklin, HollywoodReporter, 21 June 2026
Noun
  • The values imparted to me throughout my public school education — equal opportunity, impartial justice, respect for expertise, basic honesty — have been abandoned by a new breed of politician that has turned governance itself into a blood sport.
    Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 29 June 2026
  • But Swisher, who has evolved from a traditional print journalist to business owner and podcast host, has few rivals who can match her technology expertise and connect those observations to the broader political debate.
    ABC News, ABC News, 29 June 2026
Noun
  • Honest Abe is forced to scheme, relying on grit and cunning to win the votes to abolish slavery.
    Kevin P. Sullivan, Entertainment Weekly, 26 June 2026
  • Unable to outrun the Bitchfist, the Hand earns his reputation for cunning and courage.
    Amanda Whiting, Vulture, 22 June 2026
Noun
  • For full daily and monthly horoscopes as well as expert readings, see our full Horoscopes experience.
    USA TODAY, USA Today, 23 June 2026
  • With an experience like that under her belt, would an Oscar really be that big of a deal?
    Bethy Squires, Vulture, 23 June 2026
Noun
  • Training should produce portable skills and credentials that remain valuable across employers, rather than proficiency in one company’s software or business processes.
    Paulo Carvão, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026
  • Several school districts in and near Fort Worth are below the state average in reading proficiency rates, according to data from the Fort Worth Education Partnership.
    Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 1 July 2026
Noun
  • Dancers are turning to each other for support and professional favors, and are performing in unconventional venues, including art galleries.
    Steven Vargas, Los Angeles Times, 30 June 2026
  • Given three minutes, an easel, and fingerpaint, the players compete to create the most surprising art.
    Tasha Robinson, Vulture, 30 June 2026
Noun
  • Because in the age of tanmaxxing, the smartest glow may be the one that comes from SPF, skincare and a little strategic artistry—not hours spent chasing the sun.
    Kate Donnelly, Forbes.com, 23 June 2026
  • While the article is specifically about screenwriting, the general advice — that while every department on a film is an art form, our individual artistry sometimes has to take a backseat to the project’s larger needs — is applicable to anyone working in film and TV.
    Dana Harris-Bridson, IndieWire, 23 June 2026
Noun
  • The Clippers acquired George because of his All-Star two-way talent and because Leonard’s arrival hinged on George’s presence.
    Mark Medina, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026
  • In any business, the rise of fame and talent comes with rabid fans who may sometimes cross the line.
    Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 1 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Skill.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/skill. Accessed 3 Jul. 2026.

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