impractical ability
[ɪmˈpræktɪkəl əˈbɪləti]
noun phrasepl: impractical abilities
habilidade impraticável
1. A skill or capacity that is theoretically possible but difficult or inefficient to apply in real-world situations
His impractical ability to recite encyclopedias from memory was impressive but had little use in daily life.
Sua habilidade impraticável de recitar enciclopédias de memória era impressionante, mas tinha pouca utilidade na vida cotidiana.
2. A talent or competence that lacks practical application or utility despite being technically proficient
She had an impractical ability to solve complex theoretical equations that rarely appeared in real engineering problems.
Ela tinha uma habilidade impraticável para resolver equações teóricas complexas que raramente apareciam em problemas reais de engenharia.
This phrase reflects a cultural tension between academic achievement and practical utility, commonly discussed in both Brazilian and American contexts where advanced skills may not translate to career or life success. In Brazil, there's particular emphasis on 'jogo de cintura' (flexibility) and practical problem-solving, making impractical abilities viewed somewhat skeptically in professional settings.
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