proficiency

noun

pro·​fi·​cien·​cy prə-ˈfi-shən(t)-sē How to pronounce proficiency (audio)
Synonyms of proficiencynext
1
: advancement in knowledge or skill : progress
2
: the quality or state of being proficient

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Jocytė’s proficiency as a pick-and-roll ball handler projects well for a team that can use another player who can get downhill. Nathan Canilao, Mercury News, 26 May 2026 As the 99th Air Refueling Squadron’s chief of standardization and evaluation, Klinner oversaw the training and flight proficiency of more than 30 aircrew members, helping prepare pilots for missions, according to the Air Force. Alisha Ebrahimji, CNN Money, 25 May 2026 Set-piece coach Andreas Georgson was a revelation in his first season in north London, and their execution from corners and free kicks arguably reached another level alongside De Zerbi, a coach not recognised for proficiency in this area. Elias Burke, New York Times, 25 May 2026 That skill is not more AI upskilling or technical proficiency. Rachel Wells, Forbes.com, 24 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for proficiency

Word History

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of proficiency was in 1597

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Cite this Entry

“Proficiency.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/proficiency. Accessed 27 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

proficiency

noun
pro·​fi·​cien·​cy prə-ˈfish-ən-sē How to pronounce proficiency (audio)
plural proficiencies
: the quality or state of being proficient

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