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.
Yet, despite the fact that only 30% of CPS students in grades three through eight meet proficiency standards in reading and only 18% are proficient in math, CTU wants kids at a May Day political rally. Chicago Tribune, 1 May 2026 To succeed in the campaign, Arjun has to slowly develop power, increasing his proficiency and stats. Gieson Cacho, Mercury News, 30 Apr. 2026 Required qualifications included proficiency in programming and query languages. Arkansas Online, 30 Apr. 2026 My history suggests very successful proficiencies in this model. Samuel O’Neal April 29, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 29 Apr. 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 7 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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