prowess
Noun
Medium difficulty
What does “prowess” mean?
noun.skill or expertise in a particular activity or field.
SAT Usage
this term commonly appears in passages related to achievements in sports, academics, or the arts, emphasizing a high level of skill or exceptional ability. It suggests not only competence but also a noteworthy distinction that sets someone apart, differing from words like "skill," which may lack the connotation of extraordinary capability.
Common Confusions
Prowess implies exceptional skill or expertise that distinguishes someone in a field, while competence usually suggests a basic level of ability that meets the minimum requirements without implying exceptionalism.
Do not choose prowess if the context emphasizes failure or lack of ability rather than skill or expertise in a particular activity or field.
Example Sentences
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Her athletic prowess earned her a full college scholarship.