Words / B2

eksp-ur-TEEZ/ˌekspɜːˈtiːz/

Expertise is a high level of skill or knowledge in one field: legal expertise, expertise in tax, a lack of expertise. Expert is the person; expertise is the skill they have. Knowledge is wider and can be general; expertise is specialist. In speech, specialist skill is enough. The word is uncountable in this sense — an expertise is rare; say an area of expertise. Do not mix it with experience (time spent doing something) even though they often travel together.

Meaning

A high level of knowledge or skill in a particular subject.

Examples

• “We hired her for her expertise in tax law.”
• “The board hired her for her expertise in school funding, not for general management.”
• “Experience on the till is useful; expertise in accounts is a different claim.”

Good to know

Specialist skill (usually uncountable). an area of expertise. Person: an expert. Contrast: experience (time doing it); general knowledge.

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