# skillful

/ˈskɪɫfəɫ/ (US) · /skˈɪlfəl/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/skillful
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

having or showing the ability to do something very well. You use this to describe someone who has practiced a lot and is an expert at their work or hobby.

For teachers: possessing or displaying a high degree of proficiency or dexterity in a specific area. Often used to describe professional competence or physical coordination.

## Examples

- The skillful surgeon performed the operation with great care.
- The skillful negotiator managed to find a solution that satisfied both the company and the workers.
- The novel is a skillful blend of historical fact and imaginative fiction, weaving together real events with a cast of compellingly human characters.

## Pitfalls

- Not "he is skillful in play guitar" but "he is skillful at playing guitar" — When followed by an activity, use the preposition 'at' plus the -ing form of the verb.

## Usage notes

- Commonly modified by adverbs of degree like 'highly' or 'extremely'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.