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

• mastery
• experience
• IQ
• mastership
• command

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

Schools will be required to provide early intervention for K-8 students at-risk of not meeting grade level proficiency. —Carole Carlson, Chicago Tribune, 30 June 2025

Maybe letting users make lists is less about an accrual of cultural proficiency and more about extending empathy to the poor celebs who put their own taste on the line. —Fran Hoepfner, Vulture, 24 June 2025

And proficiency in basic skills among low-income students is scarcely half that of those from moderate- or high-income families. —Dan Walters, Mercury News, 20 June 2025

At the same time, many older adults face barriers using the current technology — resetting a PIN or locking a card is not easy for someone without a smartphone or with limited English proficiency. —Christina Hanson, New York Daily News, 14 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1544, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for proficiency

• deficiency
• efficiency
• sufficiency
• immunodeficiency
• inefficiency
• insufficiency

Kids Definition

proficiency

noun

pro·​fi·​cien·​cy prə-ˈfish-ən-sē 

plural proficiencies

: the quality or state of being proficient