adj
skillful
SKIHL-fuhl
adj
1
Having or showing a high level of ability or expertise.
"He's a skillful negotiator who rarely loses a deal."
"The skillful use of lighting made the film feel eerie."
How to Use Skillful
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishShowing real ability or expert technique.
UK vs US
American spelling; British English typically uses "skilful."
Easily confused with
Common pairings
skillful handling
skillful player
Word Forms
more skillful comparative, most skillful superlative
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He's a _____ negotiator who rarely loses a deal.
Etymology
From Middle English "skilful," from "skill" plus "-ful."