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
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
The bill is focused on cursive instruction in second through fifth grades and would require students to demonstrate proficiency in cursive by the end of fifth grade.
—
Miami Herald, 5 Feb. 2026
The district will make a recommendation for which of these options is appropriate for each student based on their English proficiency scores, Engel said.
—Molly Morrow, Chicago Tribune, 5 Feb. 2026
Taking the exam in one’s native language permits the driver to be knowledgeable about the rules of the road while mastering English proficiency, as many immigrants do.
—Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 4 Feb. 2026
Some require just a short residency, while others require language proficiency tests and knowledge of the history and laws.
—Michael Cappetta, Travel + Leisure, 31 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for proficiency
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Miami Herald, 5 Feb. 2026
The district will make a recommendation for which of these options is appropriate for each student based on their English proficiency scores, Engel said.
—Molly Morrow, Chicago Tribune, 5 Feb. 2026
Taking the exam in one’s native language permits the driver to be knowledgeable about the rules of the road while mastering English proficiency, as many immigrants do.
—Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 4 Feb. 2026
Some require just a short residency, while others require language proficiency tests and knowledge of the history and laws.
—Michael Cappetta, Travel + Leisure, 31 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for proficiency
Cite this Entry
“Proficiency.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/proficiency. Accessed 12 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
proficiency
noun
pro·fi·cien·cy
prə-ˈfish-ən-sē
plural proficiencies
: the quality or state of being proficient
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