isolated ability

[ˈaɪ.sə.leɪ.tɪd əˈbɪl.ə.ti]
noun phrasepl: isolated abilities
habilidade isolada
1. A single skill or competency that exists independently without connection to other related abilities or overall capability
The student demonstrated an isolated ability in mathematics but struggled with reading comprehension.
O estudante demonstrou uma habilidade isolada em matemática, mas teve dificuldades com compreensão de leitura.
2. In psychology and education, a skill that is developed or present without the expected accompanying abilities
His isolated ability to memorize facts was not matched by critical thinking skills.
Sua habilidade isolada de memorizar fatos não era acompanhada por habilidades de pensamento crítico.
3. A talent or skill that stands alone without broader competence in related areas
She possessed an isolated ability in music despite having no formal training.
Ela possuía uma habilidade isolada em música apesar de não ter treinamento formal.
This term is frequently used in educational psychology and special education in both Brazil and the USA to describe students who show exceptional ability in one area while struggling in others. In Brazilian schools, it's particularly relevant when discussing neurodivergent students or those with specific learning profiles. The concept gained prominence with increased awareness of autism spectrum conditions and savant abilities.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
isolated skilldiscrete abilitystandalone competencydisconnected talentsplinter skill
Antonyms / Antônimos
integrated abilitycomprehensive skillholistic competenceinterconnected abilities

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
habilidade isolada
Standard term used in educational and psychological contexts
Portugal
competência isolada
Alternative term more commonly used in European Portuguese
General English (USA)
isolated ability
Common in educational assessment and psychology literature

Related Words

savantskill gapcognitive profiletalentcompetencyproficiencyscattered abilities

Related Idioms & Phrases

a diamond in the rough
a one-trick pony
can't see the forest for the trees
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