proficiency

noun

pro·​fi·​cien·​cy prə-ˈfi-shən(t)-sē 

1

: advancement in knowledge or skill : progress

2

: the quality or state of being proficient

Synonyms

• command
• IQ
• mastership
• mastery

Examples of proficiency in a Sentence

surprised by his proficiency at the game after only the briefest explanation of the rules

acquired proficiency at golf through long hours of practice

Recent Examples on the Web

Those with limited English proficiency (LEP) in English-speaking countries may need help to meet their needs in healthcare clinics and classrooms. —Molly Peck, USA TODAY, 12 Dec. 2024

Although technical proficiency remains essential, the importance of two other qualities is sharply rising to the immediate forefront: integrity and flexibility. —Hk Bain, Forbes, 6 Dec. 2024

But Burke feels that, like any art, proficiency doesn't maintain itself; it must be worked at continually. —Ryan Coleman, EW.com, 5 Dec. 2024

Test scores show 7% of Engelhard's students were proficient readers last year, while math proficiency rates were not high enough to measure. —Krista Johnson, The Courier-Journal, 19 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1544, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

proficiency

noun

pro·​fi·​cien·​cy prə-ˈfish-ən-sē 

plural proficiencies

: the quality or state of being proficient