What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unskilled
Example
The unskilled worker struggled to keep up with the pace of the assembly line. [unskilled: adjective]
Example
The job only required unskilled labor, so anyone could apply. [unskilled: adjective]
novice
Example
As a novice cook, she followed the recipe step by step. [novice: noun]
Example
He was a novice at playing the guitar, but he practiced every day to improve. [novice: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unskilled is more commonly used than novice in everyday language, especially in the context of low-skilled jobs. Novice is more commonly used in the context of hobbies, sports, and professions that require some level of expertise.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between unskilled and novice?
Both unskilled and novice are relatively informal words, but unskilled may be perceived as more informal due to its association with manual labor and low-skilled jobs.
