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 So Fernandez ended up scoring two goals and incessantly bothering the Charlotte FC players with his ball skills and occasional extracurricular activity. Scott Fowler, Charlotte Observer, 8 Nov. 2025 In my case, and those of countless others, strength training is a life defining skill, one that has provided physical and emotional resilience in times of stress. Sara Schiff, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Nov. 2025 Urban Surf 4 Kids serves children who are homeless or in foster care with resources ranging from mentoring and life-skills development to surf therapy. Noah Lyons, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 Nov. 2025 It is found in the automotive and welding programs that provide essential skills for stable careers. Yolanda Watson Spiva, Fortune, 8 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for skill
Recent Examples of Synonyms for skill
Noun
  • As the first to hold the dual title of product and heritage director at the company, Sauret still draws on his previous expertise.
    Paige Reddinger, Robb Report, 8 Nov. 2025
  • Because of the skills that neurodiverse individuals can bring to the workplace — hyperfocus, creativity, empathy and niche expertise, just to name a few — some research suggests that organizations prioritizing inclusivity in this space generate nearly one-fifth higher revenue.
    Rachel Curry, CNBC, 8 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • Landing a good apartment in New York City can take some cunning.
    Matthew Sedacca, Curbed, 5 Nov. 2025
  • Coaching successfully in such conditions requires a mixture of humility and self-confidence, as well as a certain cunning.
    Dermot Corrigan, New York Times, 31 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Efforts to compete with Amazon during its ascent in the 2010s had department stores playing catchup on supply chain prowess and integrating stores with e-commerce—sometimes to the detriment of in-store experience.
    Phil Wahba, Fortune, 7 Nov. 2025
  • Despite his lack of coaching experience at the MLB level, Vitello was named manager of the San Francisco Giants last month.
    Chantz Martin, FOXNews.com, 7 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • Why Babbel Actually Works Researchers at Yale University found that 100% of participants improved their oral proficiency within three months of using Babbel.
    PC Magazine, PC Magazine, 8 Nov. 2025
  • Performing Saint-Saëns’ concerto, Kim shows proficiency and poise, with the ability to make her notes angelic.
    Sheila Regan, Twin Cities, 7 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • Whimsical kitchen island One is a whimsical island that was inspired by a MacKenzie-Childs art piece the seller owns.
    Sacbee.com, Sacbee.com, 8 Nov. 2025
  • Life isn’t quite imitating art for Kim Kardashian.
    Jodi Guglielmi, Rolling Stone, 8 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • Erivo’s nails, with design and artistry by Shea Osei, brought a vibrant pop of color to the look, which was curated by stylist Jason Bolden.
    Julia Teti, Footwear News, 10 Nov. 2025
  • Over their decade-long relationship, Laflare has used his resources and platform to support and promote Blatt's artistry.
    Haadiza Ogwude, Cincinnati Enquirer, 6 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • With a new wave of talent, including Santiago Giménez, Edson Álvarez, and César Montes leading the charge, El Tri are blending youthful energy with experienced leadership.
    Ben Verbrugge, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 Nov. 2025
  • My father had two superpowers that saved him in the face of all those failures—his talent for telling stories and gardening.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 5 Nov. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Skill.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/skill. Accessed 11 Nov. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on skill

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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