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highly skilled
/ˈhaɪli skɪld/
very competent
The company hired highly skilled engineers to develop the new software.
The company employed very competent engineers to create the new software.
formal
Having a high level of ability, training, or experience in a particular field.
She is a highly skilled surgeon with over 20 years of experience.
She is a very competent surgeon with extensive experience.
The workshop is led by highly skilled artisans who teach traditional techniques.
The workshop is led by very competent craftsmen who teach traditional methods.
Often used to describe professionals in technical, medical, or creative fields. Can imply mastery beyond basic competence.
Collocations
highly skilled workera worker with advanced abilities in their jobhighly skilled laborwork requiring advanced expertisehighly skilled workforceemployees with high levels of training and competence
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Avoid overusing 'highly skilled'
In resumes or cover letters, pair 'highly skilled' with specific achievements (e.g., 'highly skilled in Python and machine learning') to avoid sounding generic.
Gold Rule
Use 'highly skilled' for measurable expertise
Reserve this phrase for roles where skills can be objectively verified (e.g., certifications, years of experience). Avoid using it for subjective traits like 'creativity' unless supported by evidence.
Word Origin
The phrase combines 'highly' (from Old English 'hēah' meaning 'high' + '-ly' adverbial suffix) with 'skilled' (past participle of 'skill', from Old Norse 'skil' meaning 'discernment' or 'understanding'). The compound emerged in the 19th century to emphasize exceptional competence.
Usage Notes
Common in professional contexts (e.g., job descriptions, resumes) to highlight expertise. Avoid redundancy with 'very highly skilled'—'highly skilled' already implies a high degree.
Word Breakdown
highly
to a high degree
adverbskilled
having expertise
adjectiveEnglish Dictionary