Unskilled
/ʌnˈskɪld/
Definitions
Not having or needing special training or skill.
/ʌnˈskɪld/
Lacking the necessary training or experience.
He was an unskilled laborer.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone who's never learned how to bake a cake. They're unskilled because they don't know the steps or have the techniques! It's like, 'I haven't practiced, so I can't do it well.'
👶 For kids: If you're unskilled, it means you haven't learned how to do something very well yet.
More Examples
The work was performed by unskilled volunteers.
Many unskilled jobs are being automated.
How It's Used
"The job market often has a high demand for skilled workers and a surplus of unskilled labor."
"Many people enter the workforce in unskilled positions to gain experience before pursuing further training."
Synonyms & Antonyms
From 'un-' (not) + 'skilled', which comes from Old Norse 'skilja' (to discern, understand).
The term 'unskilled' has been used since the late 18th century, often to describe workers involved in manual labor.
Memory tip
Think of a worker who hasn't learned any special trades – they are UN-SKILLED.
Word Origin
"To discern, understand; to have knowledge."