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 of proficiency

• 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

Researchers found that former residents' new local elementary schools have 4 to 8% lower proficiency in both math and reading on California standardized tests. — Tim Fang, CBS News, 31 July 2026

The Eagles’ proficiency in the draft afforded them defensive dominance at a discount. — Brooks Kubena, New York Times, 30 July 2026

Only 66% of American students reached the baseline level of mathematics proficiency, compared with an OECD average of 69%, and the highest-performing countries were far ahead of both. — Jared Polis, Denver Post, 30 July 2026

In his interview with the board, Villalobos addressed issues like enrollment decline, reading proficiency, school safety, curriculum, achievement gaps and more. — Miami Herald, 29 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined at sense 2

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