Definition

Not having the ability or skill to do something well; lacking proficiency or expertise.

Example

His unskillful attempts at painting made the artwork look messy.

Conversation

I tried cooking that new recipe, but I felt so unskillful in the kitchen.

Cooking can be tricky at first, but practice makes perfect!

Yeah, I just don't want to serve anyone unskillful meals.

You'll get better with time; just keep experimenting!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unskillful → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "skillful" (from Old English "sciell" meaning ability or skill, combined with "-ful" meaning full of). The word "unskillful" means not full of skill or lacking ability.

Memory Tip

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

Visually Confused Words