skicklighet
skicklighet en 30 secondes
- Skicklighet means 'skill' or 'proficiency' in Swedish and is an 'en' noun.
- It refers to ability gained through practice and training, rather than innate talent.
- Commonly used in professional, sports, and artistic contexts with the preposition 'i'.
- Distinguished from 'kunskap' (knowledge) and 'förmåga' (general ability).
The Swedish word skicklighet is a foundational noun that English speakers would translate primarily as 'skill', 'proficiency', or 'dexterity'. At its core, it describes the quality of being able to perform a task with a high degree of competence, often acquired through practice, training, and experience. Unlike 'talang' (talent), which suggests an innate or natural gift, skicklighet implies a level of mastery that has been honed over time. It is a versatile word used in professional contexts, sports, arts, and everyday manual tasks. When you describe someone's skicklighet, you are acknowledging their technical ability and the precision with which they execute their work.
- Domain: Professionalism
- In the workplace, skicklighet refers to professional competence. A surgeon, a coder, or a carpenter all demonstrate specific types of skicklighet that define their value in their respective fields. It is often paired with adjectives like 'teknisk' (technical) or 'yrkesmässig' (professional).
- Domain: Physical Dexterity
- In crafts or sports, it refers to the physical coordination and fine motor control required to succeed. A pianist's finger skicklighet or a football player's ball-handling skicklighet are common examples of this usage.
- Domain: Social Interaction
- Social skicklighet (social skill) is the ability to navigate complex interpersonal dynamics effectively, showing empathy, tact, and clear communication.
Hennes skicklighet som kirurg är vida känd i hela landet.
The word is an 'en-word' (utrum), meaning it takes the article 'en' and the definite form 'skickligheten'. While it is often used as an abstract uncountable noun, it can occasionally be used in the plural ('skickligheter') when referring to different types of skills, though this is less common than using the word 'färdigheter' for specific individual skills. In Swedish culture, where 'hantverk' (craftsmanship) is highly valued, skicklighet is a term of genuine respect. It bypasses the flashiness of fame and focuses on the substance of one's work. Understanding the nuances of this word allows you to give precise compliments and describe professional requirements accurately.
Det krävs stor skicklighet för att bemästra detta svåra instrument.
Historically, the word is linked to the adjective 'skicklig', which shares roots with the German 'geschickt'. It implies a sense of fitness or being 'sent' (shicked) for a specific purpose, suggesting that the person is properly prepared for the task at hand. In modern Swedish, it has lost the 'destiny' connotation and strictly refers to the high level of performance. You will often see it in job advertisements under the heading 'Önskade kvalifikationer' (Desired qualifications), where employers look for 'dokumenterad skicklighet' (documented skill) in a specific area. By mastering this word, you can better navigate the Swedish professional landscape.
Diplomaten visade prov på stor politisk skicklighet under förhandlingarna.
Using skicklighet correctly requires understanding its grammatical behavior and the common prepositions that accompany it. Since it is a noun derived from an adjective, it often acts as the head of a noun phrase modified by adjectives or followed by prepositional phrases. The most common preposition used with skicklighet is 'i' (in), used to specify the field or activity where the skill is demonstrated. For example, 'skicklighet i schack' (skill in chess) or 'skicklighet i programmering' (skill in programming). Another common construction is using 'med' (with) when describing the tool or instrument used, such as 'skicklighet med kniven' (skill with the knife).
- Preposition: I (In)
- Used for subjects, domains, or games. Ex: Hans skicklighet i matematik är imponerande.
- Preposition: Med (With)
- Used for tools, instruments, or specific objects. Ex: Hon hanterar penseln med stor skicklighet.
- Preposition: Inom (Within)
- Used for broad fields or industries. Ex: Företaget söker personer med skicklighet inom IT-säkerhet.
Konstnären visade sin skicklighet genom att måla ett porträtt på bara tio minuter.
In Swedish, we often use the phrase 'visa prov på' (show evidence of) followed by skicklighet. This is a more formal way of saying someone showed they are skilled. For instance, 'Han visade prov på stor teknisk skicklighet' (He showed evidence of great technical skill). Another important aspect is the use of adjectives. Because skicklighet is an 'en-word', adjectives modifying it must end in the basic form (usually ending in a consonant or -ig). Common modifiers include 'enorm' (enormous), 'enastående' (outstanding), 'bristande' (lacking), and 'yrkesmässig' (professional).
Trots sin unga ålder besitter hon en skicklighet som få kan mäta sig med.
When talking about the lack of skill, you can use the word 'oskicklighet' (unskillfulness/clumsiness), though it is more common to say 'brist på skicklighet' (lack of skill). In legal or formal documents, 'oskicklighet' might be used to describe negligence or a failure to meet professional standards. However, in daily conversation, stick to 'skicklighet' to praise or define capabilities. If you are writing a CV in Swedish, using this word correctly can significantly enhance your professional tone. Instead of just saying 'Jag är bra på...', you can write 'Jag har en hög nivå av skicklighet inom...', which sounds much more sophisticated to a Swedish recruiter.
Det var hans skicklighet som räddade laget från förlust i sista minuten.
You will encounter skicklighet in a variety of real-world Swedish settings, from the evening news to the local sports club. One of the most frequent places to hear it is during sports broadcasts. Commentators often praise an athlete's 'tekniska skicklighet' (technical skill) when they perform a difficult maneuver. Whether it is a skier navigating a steep slope or a striker scoring a complex goal, skicklighet is the go-to word to describe that perfect blend of physical ability and mental focus. It is also a staple in the world of arts and crafts. If you visit a glassblowing studio in Småland or a wood-carving workshop in Dalarna, the artisans will often speak about the skicklighet required to master their craft over decades.
- In Sports Media
- "Zlatans skicklighet med bollen är helt unik." (Zlatan's skill with the ball is completely unique.)
- In Academic/Job Settings
- "Vi värderar både teoretisk kunskap och praktisk skicklighet." (We value both theoretical knowledge and practical skill.)
- In Politics/News
- "Statsministern berömde diplomatens skicklighet i att lösa krisen." (The Prime Minister praised the diplomat's skill in resolving the crisis.)
Hantverkarens skicklighet syns i varje liten detalj på möbeln.
In the business world, skicklighet is a key term during performance reviews and recruitment. Swedish work culture emphasizes 'kompetens' (competence), but skicklighet is often used to describe the actual execution of that competence. For instance, a manager might say, 'Jag är imponerad av din skicklighet i att hantera svåra kunder' (I am impressed by your skill in handling difficult customers). It is also used in political discourse, where commentators analyze a politician's 'retoriska skicklighet' (rhetorical skill) after a debate. The word carries a weight of respect; to call someone 'skicklig' or to remark on their skicklighet is a high compliment in Sweden.
Det krävs både tålamod och skicklighet för att lyckas som kirurg.
Finally, you will hear it in gaming and hobby communities. Whether it is a 'skicklighetsspel' (game of skill) like poker or a video game that requires fast reflexes, the term is used to distinguish between luck (tur) and ability (skicklighet). In Swedish law, some regulations differentiate between games of chance and games of skill, making skicklighet a legally significant word. When you listen to Swedish podcasts or watch Swedish TV, pay attention to how they describe experts; you will notice that skicklighet is the standard metric for excellence. By recognizing this word in these various contexts, you will gain a deeper understanding of what Swedish society values: hard-earned proficiency and quiet expertise.
Poker är ett spel som bygger mer på skicklighet än på ren tur.
For English speakers, the most common mistake when using skicklighet is confusing it with related but distinct words like 'kunskap' (knowledge), 'förmåga' (ability), or 'talang' (talent). While these words are related, they are not interchangeable in Swedish. 'Kunskap' refers to the theoretical information you have in your head. You can have a lot of 'kunskap' about how to play the piano without having the skicklighet to actually play a concerto. 'Förmåga' is a more general term for the potential or capacity to do something, whereas skicklighet specifically implies a high level of performance achieved through practice.
- Mistake: Skicklighet vs. Kunskap
- Don't use skicklighet when you mean facts or information. Incorrect: Han har stor skicklighet om historia. Correct: Han har stor kunskap om historia.
- Mistake: Skicklighet vs. Talang
- Talang is innate; skicklighet is usually earned. While often paired, they describe different origins of ability.
- Mistake: Pluralization
- English speakers often want to say 'skills' (plural). In Swedish, 'skickligheter' sounds clunky. Use 'färdigheter' instead for a list of skills.
Det är en vanlig missuppfattning att skicklighet bara handlar om talang.
Another frequent error is the choice of preposition. English speakers often translate 'skill at' or 'skill in' literally, which sometimes works but can lead to awkward phrasing. In Swedish, 'skicklighet i' is the standard for activities, but 'skicklighet på' is rarely used. For example, you are 'skicklig på att laga mat' (skilled at cooking - adjective use), but you have 'skicklighet i matlagning' (skill in cooking - noun use). Mixing the adjective and noun patterns is a very common B1-level mistake. Remember: skicklig på (adjective + på) but skicklighet i (noun + i).
Han visade stor skicklighet i att hantera krisen.
Finally, be careful with the word 'händighet'. While 'händighet' also means a type of skill, it is specifically restricted to manual, hands-on tasks like fixing a leaky faucet or knitting. You wouldn't use 'händighet' to describe a lawyer's skill in court or a programmer's skill with code; in those cases, skicklighet is the correct, more professional term. Overusing 'skicklighet' in very informal, low-stakes situations might also sound slightly dramatic. If your friend is just good at a simple video game, you might just say 'Du är bra!' rather than 'Vilken fantastisk skicklighet du besitter!' unless you are being intentionally formal or hyperbolic.
Många blandar ihop teoretisk kunskap med praktisk skicklighet.
To sound more natural and precise in Swedish, it is helpful to know the alternatives to skicklighet. Depending on the context, words like 'kompetens', 'färdighet', 'förmåga', and 'expertis' might be more appropriate. 'Kompetens' is the most common word in professional and academic settings. It refers to a combination of knowledge, skills, and attitudes required for a job. While skicklighet focuses on the 'how well', 'kompetens' focuses on the 'suitability' for a role. 'Färdighet' (usually in the plural, 'färdigheter') is the direct equivalent of 'skills' when listing them on a CV, such as 'språkfärdigheter' (language skills).
- Skicklighet vs. Kompetens
- Skicklighet: Focuses on the high quality of execution.
Kompetens: Focuses on having the necessary qualifications and ability to meet requirements. - Skicklighet vs. Färdighet
- Skicklighet: Often an abstract, singular noun (proficiency).
Färdighet: Often used in the plural for specific, learnable tasks (skills). - Skicklighet vs. Expertis
- Skicklighet: Can apply to any level of high performance.
Expertis: Implies being at the very top of a field, often involving deep specialized knowledge.
Vi behöver personal med hög teknisk kompetens och praktisk skicklighet.
Another interesting alternative is 'hantverksskicklighet'. This specific compound word is used to describe the skill of a craftsman. If you are talking about a beautiful piece of handmade furniture, using this word shows a higher level of Swedish than just using the general term. For social situations, 'social kompetens' is much more common than 'social skicklighet', although the latter is not wrong. 'Förmåga' is better when talking about the internal capacity to do something, like 'analytisk förmåga' (analytical ability). Understanding these distinctions helps you avoid repetitive language and allows you to describe people's talents with much greater nuance.
Hennes färdigheter i franska förbättrades snabbt efter flytten till Paris.
Lastly, consider the word 'vett'. While usually meaning 'sense' (as in 'sunt förnuft'), in certain contexts like 'sjövett' (skill/sense at sea), it implies a specialized type of practical skill and safety awareness. However, skicklighet remains the most versatile and widely applicable term for 'skill' in the Swedish language. By comparing it to these synonyms, you can see that skicklighet sits right at the intersection of practice, performance, and professional respect. Whether you are praising a friend's cooking or writing a formal report on employee performance, choosing between these alternatives will make your Swedish sound authentic and precise.
Det är en konst att kombinera teoretisk expertis med praktisk skicklighet.
How Formal Is It?
Le savais-tu ?
The root is the same as in the German 'Geschicklichkeit' and the Swedish verb 'skicka' (to send). It literally relates to being 'sent' or 'arranged' in the right way for a purpose.
Guide de prononciation
- Pronouncing 'sk' as 'sh' (like English 'shoe'). In Swedish 'sk' before 'i' is often a soft 'sj' sound, but in 'skicklighet' it is a hard 'sk' sound.
- Making the 'i' in 'skick' too long. It should be short.
- Dropping the 'g' in 'skicklig'—this is actually common in speech, but learners should be careful not to drop too many sounds.
- Pronouncing 'het' like English 'hat'. It must be a long Swedish 'e'.
- Misplacing the stress on the 'lig' syllable.
Niveau de difficulté
Easy to recognize in texts due to the common '-het' suffix.
Requires correct preposition use ('i' vs 'på') and noun/adjective distinction.
Pronunciation is straightforward once the 'sk' sound is mastered.
Clear sound, though the 'g' may be silent in fast speech.
Quoi apprendre ensuite
Prérequis
Apprends ensuite
Avancé
Grammaire à connaître
Noun Suffix '-het'
Skicklig (adj) + het = Skicklighet (noun). This is a common way to form abstract nouns from adjectives.
En-word Definite Form
Skickligheten (the skill). Add -en to the end of the noun.
Preposition 'i' with nouns of ability
Skicklighet i matematik (skill in math). Use 'i' for domains.
Compound Noun Linking 's'
Hantverk + s + skicklighet. When the first word is a noun, an 's' is often used to join them.
Adjective Agreement
En skicklig kvinna, ett skickligt barn, skickliga elever.
Exemples par niveau
Han är en skicklig läkare.
He is a skilled doctor.
Skicklig is an adjective here, modifying 'läkare'.
Hon är skicklig på att laga mat.
She is good at cooking.
Use 'på' with the adjective 'skicklig' to show what someone is good at.
Är du en skicklig förare?
Are you a skilled driver?
A simple question using the adjective form.
Min lärare är mycket skicklig.
My teacher is very skilled.
'Mycket' (very) is used to intensify the adjective.
De är skickliga arbetare.
They are skilled workers.
Plural form of the adjective: 'skickliga'.
Hon har en skicklig hand.
She has a skilled hand.
Using 'skicklig' to describe a part of the body involved in a task.
Han spelar piano skickligt.
He plays the piano skillfully.
Adverbial form: 'skickligt' (ending in -t).
Det var ett skickligt svar.
That was a clever/skilled answer.
Using the adjective with an 'ett' word (svar).
Hon visar stor skicklighet i sitt arbete.
She shows great skill in her work.
Introduction of the noun 'skicklighet' with the preposition 'i'.
Hans skicklighet som snickare är känd.
His skill as a carpenter is well-known.
Using 'som' (as) to define the role.
De tränar för att få mer skicklighet.
They practice to get more skill.
Using 'mer' (more) with the uncountable noun.
Det krävs skicklighet för att vinna spelet.
It takes skill to win the game.
'Det krävs' (it is required/it takes) is a common construction.
Hon sjunger med stor skicklighet.
She sings with great skill.
Using 'med' (with) to describe the manner of an action.
Jag beundrar din skicklighet i köket.
I admire your skill in the kitchen.
'I köket' is a common idiom for cooking skills.
Hantverkaren har en enorm skicklighet.
The craftsman has an enormous skill.
Using a strong adjective like 'enorm'.
Vi behöver folk med teknisk skicklighet.
We need people with technical skill.
Common phrase in a professional context.
Hennes skicklighet i att förhandla är imponerande.
Her skill in negotiating is impressive.
Using 'i att' followed by an infinitive verb.
Han besitter en ovanlig skicklighet inom IT.
He possesses an unusual skill within IT.
The verb 'besitter' (possesses) is more formal than 'har'.
Detta jobb kräver både kunskap och skicklighet.
This job requires both knowledge and skill.
Distinguishing between theory (kunskap) and practice (skicklighet).
Hon visade prov på stor skicklighet under matchen.
She showed evidence of great skill during the match.
'Visa prov på' is a key idiomatic expression.
Kirurgens skicklighet räddade patientens liv.
The surgeon's skill saved the patient's life.
Genitive form: 'Kirurgens' (The surgeon's).
Vi vill belöna din yrkesmässiga skicklighet.
We want to reward your professional skill.
'Yrkesmässig' is a common professional adjective.
Hennes skicklighet med penseln är helt unik.
Her skill with the brush is completely unique.
Using 'med' for the tool used.
Det finns en brist på skicklighet i den här gruppen.
There is a lack of skill in this group.
'Brist på' (lack of) is a useful negative construction.
Diplomatens politiska skicklighet var avgörande för freden.
The diplomat's political skill was crucial for peace.
Using 'avgörande' (crucial/decisive) to show importance.
Han hanterade den svåra situationen med stor skicklighet.
He handled the difficult situation with great skill.
Focus on the execution of a social task.
Företaget söker efter medarbetare med hög social skicklighet.
The company is looking for employees with high social skill.
'Social skicklighet' is a common requirement in HR.
Hantverksskicklighet är något som tar år att utveckla.
Craftsmanship is something that takes years to develop.
Compound word: 'hantverk' + 's' + 'skicklighet'.
Hennes retoriska skicklighet tystade alla kritiker.
Her rhetorical skill silenced all critics.
'Retorisk' (rhetorical) refers to the art of speaking.
Det krävs enastående skicklighet för att klara detta test.
It takes outstanding skill to pass this test.
'Enastående' (outstanding) is a high-level adjective.
Han utnyttjade sin skicklighet för att nå sina mål.
He utilized his skill to reach his goals.
'Utnyttja' (utilize/exploit) used in a positive sense here.
Deras skicklighet i att lösa problem är välkänd i branschen.
Their skill in solving problems is well-known in the industry.
Using the noun to describe a collective group.
Författarens narrativa skicklighet skapar en fängslande atmosfär.
The author's narrative skill creates a captivating atmosphere.
Literary analysis context.
Det krävs stor skicklighet för att balansera dessa motstridiga intressen.
It takes great skill to balance these conflicting interests.
Metaphorical use in a complex political or social context.
Hennes vetenskapliga skicklighet har lett till flera genombrott.
Her scientific skill has led to several breakthroughs.
Academic context focusing on research ability.
Han visade prov på enastående musikalisk skicklighet vid konserten.
He showed evidence of outstanding musical skill at the concert.
Formal review or critique style.
Det är en fråga om skicklighet snarare än ren tur.
It is a matter of skill rather than pure luck.
Using 'snarare än' (rather than) for contrast.
Regeringen berömde hans skicklighet i krishantering.
The government praised his skill in crisis management.
Official administrative context.
Hantverksskickligheten i dessa antika föremål är häpnadsväckande.
The craftsmanship in these ancient artifacts is astonishing.
Focusing on historical technique.
Vi måste värna om den pedagogiska skickligheten i skolan.
We must protect the pedagogical skill in schools.
Policy and educational discourse.
Denna avhandling belyser vikten av konstnärlig skicklighet i modern tid.
This thesis highlights the importance of artistic skill in modern times.
Highly formal academic Swedish.
Hans skicklighet i att navigera det politiska landskapet är oöverträffad.
His skill in navigating the political landscape is unsurpassed.
Using 'oöverträffad' (unsurpassed) for maximum praise.
Det finns en subtil skicklighet i hur hon formulerar sina argument.
There is a subtle skill in how she phrases her arguments.
Focusing on the nuance of language use.
Oskicklighet i tjänsten kan leda till rättsliga påföljder.
Unskillfulness in service can lead to legal consequences.
Legal term 'oskicklighet i tjänsten' (malpractice/negligence).
Hon besitter en närmast intuitiv skicklighet i att läsa människor.
She possesses an almost intuitive skill in reading people.
Psychological/interpersonal nuance.
Det krävdes en enorm teknisk skicklighet för att genomföra projektet.
It required enormous technical skill to carry out the project.
Describing large-scale engineering feats.
Hans litterära skicklighet manifesteras i hans unika stil.
His literary skill is manifested in his unique style.
Using 'manifesteras' (manifested) in a formal way.
Vi mäter framgång genom både innovation och hantverksmässig skicklighet.
We measure success through both innovation and artisanal skill.
Corporate philosophy/vision statement style.
Collocations courantes
Phrases Courantes
— Doing something with a high level of expertise.
Han utförde uppdraget med stor skicklighet.
— Skill in doing a specific action (verb).
Hennes skicklighet i att skriva är fantastisk.
— Something that depends on skill rather than luck.
Det är en fråga om skicklighet, inte tur.
— To work on becoming better at something.
Han försöker ständigt utveckla sin skicklighet.
— When a task is difficult and needs a pro.
Detta spel kräver verkligen skicklighet.
— When someone is not good enough at a task.
Projektet misslyckades på grund av bristande skicklighet.
— Proven skill, often through certificates or experience.
Vi kräver dokumenterad skicklighet inom Java.
— The ability to teach effectively.
Universitetet betonar pedagogisk skicklighet.
— Specifically for ball control in sports.
Hennes skicklighet med bollen är imponerande.
— Research and academic proficiency.
Han fick pris för sin vetenskapliga skicklighet.
Souvent confondu avec
Kunskap is what you know (theory); skicklighet is what you can do (practice).
Förmåga is general potential; skicklighet is specific, high-level proficiency.
Talang is often seen as innate; skicklighet is seen as earned through practice.
Expressions idiomatiques
— To show one's ability and skill to get noticed.
Han visade verkligen framfötterna på det nya jobbet.
Informal/Idiomatic— To have many different skills or talents.
Hon är både musiker och ingenjör; hon har många strängar på sin lyra.
Neutral/Idiomatic— To be completely unskillful with manual tasks (opposite of skicklighet).
Jag kan inte bygga hyllan själv, jag har tummen mitt i handen.
Informal/Idiomatic— To be alert and ready to show one's skill.
Säljaren var verkligen på hugget idag.
Informal— To truly know one's trade or craft (implying high skicklighet).
Han är en gammal skomakare som verkligen kan sitt hantverk.
Neutral— To have the skill naturally or through long practice.
Hon behöver inte tänka när hon stickar, hon har det i fingrarna.
Informal— To show skill in understanding or describing something perfectly.
Där slog du verkligen huvudet på spiken med din analys.
Neutral/Idiomatic— To have a skill for seeing or judging something (like design).
Hon har verkligen öga för inredning.
Neutral— To be very careful and skillful in a difficult situation.
Det gäller att hålla tungan rätt i mun när man hanterar dessa kemikalier.
Informal/Idiomatic— To show skill in handling a situation to one's advantage.
Om du spelar dina kort rätt kan du få befordran.
Neutral/IdiomaticFacile à confondre
Both mean skill.
Händighet is only for manual/hand tasks. Skicklighet is for anything (math, law, sports).
Han har god händighet (he's good with tools), men hon har politisk skicklighet (she has political skill).
Very similar meaning.
Färdighet is usually a specific skill you learn (like typing). Skicklighet is the overall level of how well you do it.
Att skriva snabbt är en färdighet, men att skriva en roman kräver skicklighet.
Comes from the common word 'duktig'.
Duktighet sounds a bit childish or overly simple. Skicklighet is the professional/adult word.
Barnets duktighet gladde föräldrarna, men kirurgens skicklighet räddade liv.
Structures de phrases
Hen har [stor] skicklighet.
Han har stor skicklighet.
Skicklighet i att [verb].
Skicklighet i att laga bilar.
Visa prov på [adjektiv] skicklighet.
Hon visade prov på stor skicklighet.
Det krävs [subst] för [subst].
Det krävs skicklighet för framgång.
[Adjektiv] skicklighet är avgörande.
Teknisk skicklighet är avgörande.
Besitta en [adjektiv] skicklighet.
Han besitter en enastående skicklighet.
En kombination av [subst] och skicklighet.
En kombination av kunskap och skicklighet.
Skickligheten manifesteras i...
Skickligheten manifesteras i detaljerna.
Famille de mots
Noms
Verbes
Adjectifs
Apparenté
Comment l'utiliser
Highly common in professional and sports contexts.
-
Han har stor kunskap i att spela gitarr.
→
Han har stor skicklighet i att spela gitarr.
Kunskap is for facts; skicklighet is for the physical/practical ability to play.
-
Hon är skicklighet på matte.
→
Hon är skicklig på matte. / Hon har skicklighet i matte.
Don't mix the noun and adjective. Use the adjective 'skicklig' with 'är'.
-
Mina skickligheter inkluderar Java och Python.
→
Mina färdigheter inkluderar Java och Python.
Use 'färdigheter' when listing specific technical skills in the plural.
-
Det var ett skicklig drag.
→
Det var ett skickligt drag.
Adjectives must agree with the noun. 'Drag' is an 'ett' word, so 'skickligt' is required.
-
Han visade skicklighet på att köra bil.
→
Han visade skicklighet i att köra bil.
The noun 'skicklighet' takes the preposition 'i', not 'på'.
Astuces
Noun vs Adjective
Remember the preposition shift: 'skicklig på' but 'skicklighet i'. This is a common test question in Swedish exams.
Compound Power
Swedish loves compounds. Adding 'yrkes-' or 'hantverks-' to 'skicklighet' makes you sound like a C1 speaker immediately.
The Jante Law
While Swedes value 'skicklighet', they don't like bragging. It's often better to let your 'skicklighet' speak for itself.
CV Writing
Use 'dokumenterad skicklighet' to sound authoritative. It implies you have proof of your skills.
The Silent G
In the adjective 'skicklig', the 'g' is almost never heard. In 'skicklighet', it's slightly more audible but still soft.
Abstract Nouns
Words ending in '-het' are almost always abstract. Use them to discuss ideas and qualities rather than physical things.
Tone
Listen for the 'stress-timing' in the word. SKICK-lig-het. The first and last syllables are slightly more emphasized.
Game of Skill
In legal terms, a 'skicklighetsspel' is a game where your choices matter more than luck. This is a common term in gaming laws.
The 'Skill' Link
Just remember: SK-ill = SK-icklighet. They start the same way in both languages!
Avoiding Repetition
If you've already used 'skicklighet' in a paragraph, switch to 'expertis' or 'kompetens' to keep the text interesting.
Mémorise-le
Moyen mnémotechnique
Think of 'SKICK' as 'Skill' + 'Quick'. A skilled person is often 'skick' (quick and precise) at their task. The ending '-het' is like '-ness' in English.
Association visuelle
Imagine a surgeon's hands moving with incredible precision, or a chess player making a genius move. Associate that image with the word 'skicklighet'.
Word Web
Défi
Try to use 'skicklighet' in three different sentences today: one about a hobby, one about a job, and one about a famous person.
Origine du mot
The word 'skicklighet' comes from the adjective 'skicklig', which is derived from the Middle Low German word 'schickelīk'. This in turn comes from the verb 'schicken', meaning 'to arrange' or 'to send'.
Sens originel : The original sense was 'to be fitting' or 'suitable' for a task. If you were 'sent' for a job, you were the right person for it.
Germanic (Swedish, German, Dutch).Contexte culturel
Be careful not to confuse 'skicklighet' with 'list' (cunning). While 'skicklighet' is purely positive, 'list' can imply being sneaky.
In English, we often use 'skills' (plural). In Swedish, we prefer the singular 'skicklighet' for the abstract quality, or 'färdigheter' for a list of specific abilities.
Pratique dans la vie réelle
Contextes réels
Job Interview
- Jag har stor skicklighet inom...
- Min tekniska skicklighet är...
- Jag vill utveckla min skicklighet i...
- Mina tidigare resultat visar på skicklighet.
Sports Commentary
- Vilken teknisk skicklighet!
- Han visar prov på stor skicklighet.
- Det är ren skicklighet som avgör.
- Hennes skicklighet med bollen är enorm.
Crafts/Hobbies
- Det krävs mycket skicklighet.
- Han har en otrolig hantverksskicklighet.
- Visa din skicklighet!
- Skicklighet kommer med träning.
Academic/Professional Writing
- Den vetenskapliga skickligheten bedöms...
- Brister i den yrkesmässiga skickligheten...
- En kombination av teori och skicklighet...
- Pedagogisk skicklighet är ett krav.
Social Situations
- Du har en naturlig skicklighet i att...
- Jag beundrar din sociala skicklighet.
- Det var skickligt gjort!
- Vilken skicklighet du visar!
Amorces de conversation
"Vilken skicklighet tycker du är viktigast att ha i ditt yrke?"
"Tror du att skicklighet är viktigare än talang i sport?"
"Hur tränar man bäst upp sin skicklighet i ett nytt språk?"
"Finns det någon speciell skicklighet du skulle vilja lära dig?"
"Vem är den person med mest skicklighet som du känner?"
Sujets d'écriture
Beskriv en gång när du visade stor skicklighet i något. Vad hände?
Reflektera över skillnaden mellan kunskap och skicklighet i ditt eget liv.
Vilka skickligheter tror du kommer att vara viktigast i framtiden?
Skriv om en person du beundrar för deras yrkesmässiga skicklighet.
Hur känner du när du märker att din skicklighet i svenska förbättras?
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsIt is an 'en' word (en skicklighet). This means the definite form is 'skickligheten'.
You can say 'skickligheter', but it is very rare. Usually, Swedes use 'färdigheter' if they want to talk about multiple skills.
'Skicklig' is the adjective (skilled), and 'skicklighet' is the noun (skill/proficiency).
Use 'kompetens' for formal qualifications or when checking if someone is 'fit' for a job. Use 'skicklighet' to praise how well they actually do the work.
Yes, they share the same root. Historically, it meant being 'sent' or 'arranged' correctly for a task.
The most common one is 'i'. For example: 'skicklighet i schack' (skill in chess).
Yes, but 'social kompetens' is much more common in Sweden.
Yes, it means 'unskillfulness' and is often used in legal contexts to describe professional negligence.
Not necessarily. It usually implies that the ability was gained through practice and hard work.
You can say 'Han är skicklig på...' (adjective) or 'Han har skicklighet i...' (noun).
Teste-toi 200 questions
Write a sentence about a skilled doctor.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Describe your own best skill in Swedish.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Use 'skicklighet' and 'i' in a sentence.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Explain the difference between 'kunskap' and 'skicklighet'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a formal sentence for a job application.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Use 'visa prov på' in a sentence.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about a craftsman.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'It takes skill to win.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about a lack of skill.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Use the plural 'färdigheter' in a sentence.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Describe a famous athlete's skill.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence using 'pedagogisk skicklighet'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'She handles the situation with skill.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence using 'skickligt' (adverb).
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Describe a hobby using 'skicklighet'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Use 'yrkesmässig skicklighet' in a sentence.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'A game of skill.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about a politician's skill.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Use 'enastående' with 'skicklighet'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about developing a skill.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Pronounce: 'Skicklighet'.
Read this aloud:
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'Han är en skicklig läkare.'
Read this aloud:
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'Jag vill utveckla min skicklighet.'
Read this aloud:
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'Vilken fantastisk skicklighet!'
Read this aloud:
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'Det krävs skicklighet i schack.'
Read this aloud:
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Explain 'skicklighet' in Swedish.
Read this aloud:
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'Teknisk skicklighet är viktigt.'
Read this aloud:
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'Han visade prov på stor skicklighet.'
Read this aloud:
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'Hon har enastående skicklighet.'
Read this aloud:
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'Hantverksskicklighet är en konst.'
Read this aloud:
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'Det är ett skicklighetsspel.'
Read this aloud:
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'Jag beundrar din skicklighet.'
Read this aloud:
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'Bristande skicklighet är ett problem.'
Read this aloud:
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'Han spelar piano skickligt.'
Read this aloud:
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'Hon besitter stor skicklighet.'
Read this aloud:
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'Det krävs manuell skicklighet.'
Read this aloud:
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'Statsministern visade politisk skicklighet.'
Read this aloud:
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'Vi mäter din yrkesskicklighet.'
Read this aloud:
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'Skickligheten syns i detaljerna.'
Read this aloud:
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'Är du skicklig på att köra bil?'
Read this aloud:
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Listen and write: 'Skicklighet'.
Listen and write: 'En skicklig kock'.
Listen and write: 'Stor skicklighet'.
Listen and write: 'Skicklighet i schack'.
Listen and write: 'Teknisk skicklighet'.
Listen and write: 'Han visade skicklighet'.
Listen and write: 'Brist på skicklighet'.
Listen and write: 'Ett skicklighetsspel'.
Listen and write: 'Hantverksskicklighet'.
Listen and write: 'Politisk skicklighet'.
Listen and write: 'Yrkesmässig skicklighet'.
Listen and write: 'Hon är skicklig'.
Listen and write: 'Skickligt gjort'.
Listen and write: 'Besitta skicklighet'.
Listen and write: 'Enastående skicklighet'.
/ 200 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The word 'skicklighet' is essential for describing high-level performance and professional competence in Swedish. It emphasizes mastery through practice. Example: 'Hans skicklighet som kock gjorde restaurangen berömd' (His skill as a chef made the restaurant famous).
- Skicklighet means 'skill' or 'proficiency' in Swedish and is an 'en' noun.
- It refers to ability gained through practice and training, rather than innate talent.
- Commonly used in professional, sports, and artistic contexts with the preposition 'i'.
- Distinguished from 'kunskap' (knowledge) and 'förmåga' (general ability).
Noun vs Adjective
Remember the preposition shift: 'skicklig på' but 'skicklighet i'. This is a common test question in Swedish exams.
Compound Power
Swedish loves compounds. Adding 'yrkes-' or 'hantverks-' to 'skicklighet' makes you sound like a C1 speaker immediately.
The Jante Law
While Swedes value 'skicklighet', they don't like bragging. It's often better to let your 'skicklighet' speak for itself.
CV Writing
Use 'dokumenterad skicklighet' to sound authoritative. It implies you have proof of your skills.
Contenu associé
Plus de mots sur work
anlita
B2to hire someone for a job
anmälan
B1Une notification formelle ou une inscription.
ansträngning
B1a vigorous exertion of effort
anställa
B1to hire someone for a job
anställd
B1Une personne employée pour un salaire. En Suède, le statut d'employé (anställd) offre des protections juridiques importantes.
anställning
B1employment or a job position
ansvar
A2Responsabilité, obligation d'être responsable de ses actes et de leurs conséquences.
ansvara
B2Être responsable de quelque chose. (Ex: Il est responsable du projet.)
ansvarsområde
B2Le terme 'ansvarsområde' désigne un domaine de responsabilité spécifique.
ansökan
B1Une 'ansökan' est une candidature ou une demande formelle. On l'utilise pour postuler à un emploi ou demander un permis.