life skill

American  

[lahyf skil] / ˈlaɪf ˌskɪl /

noun

1. Usually life skills a skill that helps a person to function well in adult life, especially in social or emotional situations.

   Schools can teach life skills such as persistence and resilience.

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Etymology

Origin of life skill

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

The campaign says online privacy should be taught as an essential life skill "as natural as teaching a child to cross the road".

From BBC • Apr. 6, 2026

Whether you’re hoping to make your own garments or alter the ones you already have, sewing is an incredibly useful life skill to have.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 5, 2024

“Cooking is an essential life skill that children need to learn to be self-sufficient adults,” Loftlin said.

From Salon • Feb. 4, 2024

It’s also helpful to remember that pooping in the toilet is a life skill, experts emphasize, and shouldn’t require rewards.

From Washington Post • Dec. 23, 2022

Even in the lowest walks of life, skill and ability must be of some advantage; though in many occupations, owing to the great division of labour, a very small one.

From The Descent of Man by Darwin, Charles