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

That’s a pretty basic tenet of cultural proficiency, which some seem to have forgotten. — Chris Roemer, Baltimore Sun, 19 Sep. 2026

The association acknowledged concerns raised by DHS around fraud with commercial driver’s licenses, unqualified drivers and English language proficiency. — Eduardo Cuevas, CNN Money, 18 Sep. 2026

The state law defines such programs as those that develop proficiency in both English and another language by offering instruction in a classroom that is typically a mix of native speakers of English and of the other language. — Arkansas Online, 16 Sep. 2026

With more students passing this year’s proficiency test, the Tucson Unified School District is preparing to continue supporting students like Arturo within the mandates approved by voters in 2000. — Rafael Carranza, ProPublica, 16 Sep. 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