Lecture Notes on Phrases for Ability and Inability

Instructor: West
Channel: Interactive English
Focus: Building vocabulary related to ability and inability

Introduction

Have a knack for
- Definition: A natural skill or ability.
- Example: "She has a knack for negotiating."
- Variations: "I have a knack for falling asleep quickly."
- Notes: Most commonly followed by "for", but can also be "of" in certain contexts.
Proficient at/in/with
- Definition: Skilled or experienced.
- Example: "He is proficient at coding."
- Guidelines:
  - Use "at" with specific tasks.
  - Use "in" with general subjects.
  - Use "with" for tools.
Adept at
- Definition: Natural ability requiring skill.
- Example: "She is adept at problem-solving."
- Contextual use in headlines.
Masterful at
- Definition: Highly skilled in a particular activity.
- Example: "I am masterful at taking selfies."
- Can also be used with nouns: "a masterful job/performance."
Natural at
- Definition: Inherent or instinctive ability.
- Example: "He's a natural at playing chess."
- Can say "natural-born" followed by a noun.
Well-versed in
- Definition: Knowledgeable about a topic.
- Example: "They are well-versed in the art of deception."
When it comes to
- Use: To specify a topic of ability.
- Example: "He is a natural when it comes to billiards."

Not my strong suit
- Definition: A particular skill or ability someone does not have.
- Example: "Public speaking is not my strong suit."
- Context: Useful when discussing familiar skills.
Not my cup of tea
- Definition: Refers to preference rather than ability.
- Example: "Horror movies are not my cup of tea."
Achilles heel
- Definition: A small weakness or vulnerability.
- Example: "Math has always been my Achilles heel."
- Synonym: Weakness.
Rusty
- Definition: Not as skilled due to lack of practice.
- Example: "I haven't bowled in a year, so I'm a bit rusty."
Two left feet
- Definition: Awkward movement, often related to dancing.
- Example: "When it comes to dancing, I have two left feet."