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 The fun of watching Survivor is seeing contestants wriggle out of seemingly impossible binds through social skills, but when that becomes impossible, the show renders itself only frustrating. Jason P. Frank, Vulture, 2 Apr. 2026 As treatment landscapes continue to evolve, that skill becomes even more valuable. Sonia Singh, Rolling Stone, 2 Apr. 2026 By teaching skills that help manage thoughts, feelings and behaviors, CBT helps people with ADHD learn and use self-regulation skills. Laura E. Knouse, The Conversation, 2 Apr. 2026 Antigua had rejoined Illini coach Brad Underwood, who liked the big man’s skill and shooting. Colleen Kane, Chicago Tribune, 2 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for skill
Recent Examples of Synonyms for skill
Noun
  • Local expertise is indispensable.
    Wassan Al-Khudhairi, Artforum, 2 Apr. 2026
  • Course correction is coming, with the board and Brittin, himself lacking editorial credentials, committed to hiring a deputy director general with content and journalism expertise.
    Jake Kanter, Deadline, 2 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • The Brazil international combines technical craft with a decisive cunning.
    Carl Anka, New York Times, 21 Mar. 2026
  • But Muck is no Epstein, malevolent and cunning.
    Spencer Kornhaber, The Atlantic, 2 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • The situation has fueled broader conversations about event marketing, consumer expectations and accountability when large-scale fan experiences do not match their promotional claims.
    Claire Dodds, MSNBC Newsweek, 31 Mar. 2026
  • Additionally, the show features bundle deals and insider offers for discounts on dining and experiences.
    Charles Singh, USA Today, 31 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • The Seder provides many different ways to engage with the language, often alongside older generations who acquired varying degrees of proficiency from their forebears.
    Bryan Kirschen, The Conversation, 25 Mar. 2026
  • The takeover will continue until the district meets criteria set by the Texas Education Agency, which include exceeding the state and/or regional average for meeting-grade-level proficiency in reading and math, and ensuring the district has no schools unacceptable ratings for multiple years.
    Lina Ruiz, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Other highlights include Lark & Key art gallery and The Morehead Inn, a historic bed-and-breakfast.
    Chase Jordan March 30, Charlotte Observer, 30 Mar. 2026
  • Millionaire industrialist Henry Clay Frick transformed his mansion into a boutique museum focused on Western European art.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Look for ways to add joy to your life, whether that looks like taking more breaks or weaving artistry into your to-do list.
    Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 30 Mar. 2026
  • Not every entry in an artist’s catalog has to be a revelation; perhaps Ricochet’s pleasant filler is a necessary step in the evolution of Jordan’s artistry and the trajectory of Snail Mail as a band.
    Grace Robins-Somerville, Pitchfork, 30 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Some programs have built their identity on hard coaching or amassing the most talent possible, and while Campbell isn’t soft on his players, he’s opted to create a culture of joy that’s led to TCU signing Van Lith and Miles.
    Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 29 Mar. 2026
  • But fans online have panned the card for lacking top talent such as former two-division champion Jon Jones, who requested his release from the UFC immediately after being excluded from the White House show.
    Will Weissert, Chicago Tribune, 29 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Skill.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/skill. Accessed 5 Apr. 2026.

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