skillful
SKIHL-fuhl
Skillful (adj) means having or showing a high level of ability or expertise. Example: “He's a skillful negotiator who rarely loses a deal.”
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
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more skillful
- Superlative
- most skillful
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He's a _____ negotiator who rarely loses a deal.
Etymology
From Middle English "skilful," from "skill" plus "-ful."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for skillful
See all rhymes for skillful →Frequently asked questions
What does “skillful” mean?
The word “skillful” means having or showing a high level of ability or expertise. In plain terms, showing real ability or expert technique.
How do you pronounce “skillful”?
“Skillful” is pronounced SKIHL-fuhl (/ˈskɪl.fəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “skillful” in a sentence?
Here is “skillful” used in a sentence: “He's a skillful negotiator who rarely loses a deal.”
What part of speech is “skillful”?
“Skillful” is an adjective.
Where does the word “skillful” come from?
The word “skillful” comes from Middle English. From Middle English "skilful," from "skill" plus "-ful.".
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