Definition

Not having the necessary skills or training for a particular job or task.

Example

Many unskilled workers are looking for jobs that require little experience.

Conversation

I saw the new guy at work today, and he seems a bit unskilled at his job.

Yeah, I noticed that too; he struggled with the basic tasks.

I hope he gets better with time, because everyone starts somewhere, right?

Definitely! It just takes practice to improve those unskilled areas.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unskilled → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "skilled" (from Old English "scyld", meaning having skill or ability). The word "unskilled" means not having skill or ability in a particular area.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') having 'skill' — that's why unskilled means lacking skill.

Visually Confused Words