Good At vs Good In Grammar: Master the Preposition Puzzle

Are you confused about whether to say you are “good at” or “good in” English? Understanding the subtle differences between these prepositions is crucial for clear communication and scoring high on English proficiency exams. This guide breaks down the grammar rules, provides 100 practical examples, and offers expert tips to help you master this common linguistic hurdle.

Introduction to Good at vs Good in

When it comes to mastering English prepositions, one of the most frequent points of confusion for learners is the choice between good at vs good in grammar. While they might seem interchangeable in casual conversation, specific rules govern their usage in formal writing and competitive examinations.

Generally, we use “good at” to describe a person’s proficiency in an activity or skill, whereas “good in” often refers to performance within a specific environment or subject area. This article will clarify these nuances so you never have to second-guess yourself again.

Good At vs Good In: The Core Rule: At vs. In

• Good at: Used followed by a noun or gerund (-ing form) to indicate a skill or talent. (e.g., She is good at math.)
• Good in: Used to indicate performance within a specific category, group, or academic subject context. (e.g., He did good in his exams.)

100 Examples of Good At vs Good In

Section 1: Proficiency in Skills (Good At)

1. She is good at painting portraits.
2. Are you good at solving puzzles?
3. He is remarkably good at chess.
4. My brother is good at fixing cars.
5. They are good at organizing events.
6. I am not very good at public speaking.
7. Is she good at playing the violin?
8. He is good at making people laugh.
9. We are good at meeting deadlines.
10. She is good at identifying bird species.
11. You are good at explaining complex ideas.
12. He is good at managing his time.
13. I am good at remembering names.
14. She is good at baking sourdough bread.
15. My father is good at gardening.
16. They are good at negotiating deals.
17. Are you good at swimming long distances?
18. He is good at coding in Python.
19. She is good at graphic design.
20. I am good at finding lost items.
21. We are good at collaborative work.
22. He is good at archery.
23. She is good at keeping secrets.
24. You are good at photography.
25. I am good at mental math.
26. They are good at soccer.
27. He is good at wood carving.
28. She is good at writing poetry.
29. We are good at brainstorming.
30. Are you good at driving in the rain?
31. He is good at debate.
32. She is good at yoga.
33. I am good at playing poker.
34. They are good at marketing.
35. He is good at fishing.
36. She is good at interior design.
37. You are good at singing opera.
38. I am good at brewing coffee.
39. We are good at strategy games.
40. He is good at carpentry.
41. She is good at knitting.
42. They are good at research.
43. You are good at motivating others.
44. I am good at calligraphy.
45. He is good at mixology.
46. She is good at tennis.
47. We are good at navigating.
48. Are you good at skating?
49. He is good at storytelling.
50. She is good at dancing.

Section 2: Performance in Subjects/Contexts (Good In)

51. He was good in chemistry class.
52. She is good in science subjects.
53. They were good in the final interview.
54. I did good in the grammar test.
55. He is good in his new role.
56. She was good in the lead part of the play.
57. He is good in crisis situations.
58. She is good in every subject she takes.
59. They are good in high-pressure environments.
60. I was good in history during high school.
61. He is good in the debate club.
62. She is good in economics.
63. They were good in the team competition.
64. I am good in academic settings.
65. He is good in a sales environment.
66. She was good in her presentation today.
67. He is good in business matters.
68. She is good in linguistics.
69. They are good in the medical field.
70. I was good in the spelling bee.
71. He is good in small group discussions.
72. She is good in her current position.
73. They are good in the laboratory.
74. I am good in competitive exams.
75. He was good in the first half of the match.
76. She is good in the social sciences.
77. They are good in customer service roles.
78. I was good in geometry.
79. He is good in a leadership capacity.
80. She is good in the choir.
81. They were good in the audition.
82. I am good in the kitchen (meaning the environment/work).
83. He is good in his studies.
84. She was good in the debate.
85. They are good in emergency drills.
86. I am good in advanced calculus.
87. He is good in the legal profession.
88. She was good in the film.
89. They are good in the marketing department.
90. I was good in the trial run.
91. He is good in philosophy.
92. She is good in sports (general category).
93. They were good in the preliminary rounds.
94. I am good in English literature.
95. He is good in the workshop.
96. She was good in the meeting.
97. They are good in tight spaces.
98. I was good in the morning session.
99. He is good in political science.
100. She is good in her field of expertise.

Important Tips for Competitive Examinations

If you are preparing for exams like the SAT, IELTS, TOEFL, or SSC, pay attention to these nuances:

1. The “At + Gerund” Rule: If you see a verb ending in “-ing” (like running, writing, speaking), use at.
2. Specific vs. General: “Good at” is almost always the safer bet for specific skills. “Good in” is often used for broader containers (subjects, classes, or roles).
3. The “Excellent” Test: You would say “Excellent at,” not “Excellent in” for a skill. The same logic usually applies to “Good.”
4. American vs. British English: In American English, “good in” is more commonly used for school subjects (e.g., “Good in Math”), while British English strictly prefers “Good at Math.” For international exams, “good at” is generally considered more standard for subjects.

FAQs on Good At vs Good In

Q: Can I say “I am good in English”?

A: Yes, it is acceptable, especially in American English, implying you are good in the subject of English. However, “I am good at English” is more common globally when referring to your ability to speak or write the language.

Q: Is “good in” grammatically incorrect?

A: No, it is not incorrect, but its usage is more limited to contexts involving performance within a group, a specific setting, or a field of study.

Q: Which one should I use for a job interview?

A: Use “good at” for specific tasks (e.g., “I am good at data analysis”). Use “good in” for environments (e.g., “I am good in fast-paced settings”).

Conclusion on Good At vs Good In

Understanding the distinction between good at vs good in grammar is a simple yet effective way to polish your English. While “good at” focuses on your dexterity with specific skills and actions, “good in” highlights your success within specific environments or academic subjects. By practicing with the examples provided, you can ensure your preposition usage is always accurate and professional.

Disclaimer on Good At vs Good In

While this guide follows standard grammatical conventions, language usage can vary by region (American vs. British English). Always check the specific style guide required by your educational institution or employer.

Also Read: Apologize to or Apologize for: Master the Difference with 100+ Examples

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