experience

Hi,

It is not only experience that taught him how to survive, but also his instinct to make him sharper.

It was not only experience that taught him to survive but also his instinct, which also made him sharper.

Day after day, he trained his skill with others.

Day after day, he trained with others to improve his skill.

Best wishes, Clive

Hi,

It is not only experience that taught him how to survive, but also his instinct to make him sharper.

Why I cannot say " to make him sharper" in that sentence?  'That taught him to survive' describes 'experience'. In the second part of the sentence, you need something that describes 'instinct', and 'to make him sharper' is not an adjectival form of words.

Do you know what 'sharper' means in this context?

Best wishes, Clive

Hi again,

Yes, 'sharp' has the meaning of 'clever', but it also suggests an alert and practical kind of intelligence.

eg A soldier increases his skills and knowledge through experience, and learns to 'stay sharp'.

A sharp salesman always makes deals that benefit himself, knows all the ways and shortcuts to make money.

Best wishes, Clive