Definition of proficiencynext
1
as in mastery
a highly developed skill in or knowledge of something surprised by his proficiency at the game after only the briefest explanation of the rules

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2
as in skills
knowledge gained by actually doing or living through something acquired proficiency at golf through long hours of practice

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of proficiency The driver's language proficiency is among the factors being considered following claims on social media that Dong, a native of China, does not speak English, per ABC7. Latoya Gayle, PEOPLE, 1 June 2026 Has a 93% graduation rate, 60% reading and 27% math proficiency, and 32% AP participation rate. Ryan Brennan may 29, Sacbee.com, 29 May 2026 But if everyone possesses the same technological advantage, technical proficiency alone will no longer distinguish students. Marybeth Gasman, Forbes.com, 28 May 2026 According to state test scores, less than half of California public school students are reading at grade level, and slightly more than a third are demonstrating proficiency in math at grade level. Mercury News Editorial Board, Mercury News, 27 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for proficiency
Recent Examples of Synonyms for proficiency
Noun
  • Seasons 1 and 2 of the AMC show have a mastery of an elevated, almost operatic tone.
    Sarah Shachat, IndieWire, 6 June 2026
  • Northwood showcased its mastery of the fundamentals by playing errorless defense behind freshman pitcher Olivia Chen and scored eight runs in the fifth inning to defeat Grace 11-1 in the Division 5 final at Deanna Manning Stadium.
    Dan Albano, Oc Register, 30 May 2026
Noun
  • There’s a career development program where children are taught employment skills and financial literacy and get to open their own bank accounts.
    Michael Cuglietta, The Orlando Sentinel, 9 June 2026
  • As for how companies should go about executing all this, Whitman made the case that in-office mandates should be essential, and that imposing them is crucial to building skills in younger workers.
    Jeff John Roberts, Fortune, 9 June 2026
Noun
  • This had the effect of doubling the experience for everyone but Pippa.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 9 June 2026
  • This stunning resort has 11 pool experiences, including a kid-friendly waterscape with a splash pad, waterslide, and gentle 18-inch-deep pool.
    Allison Tibaldi, USA Today, 9 June 2026
Noun
  • This process requires extensive hand labor and expertise, as the end result will be visible in the car’s appearance.
    Jerry Perez, The Drive, 4 June 2026
  • During a press conference on May 28, the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Atlanta Office outlined their preparations for the tournament, and where their expertise could be needed.
    Irene Wright, USA Today, 4 June 2026
Noun
  • But his talent and hockey IQ show no signs of short-term degradation.
    Fluto Shinzawa, New York Times, 27 May 2026
  • Lead, a heavy metal once common in products like pipes and paints, is a neurotoxin that can stunt children’s development, lower IQ scores and increase blood pressure in adults.
    Molly Morrow, Chicago Tribune, 26 May 2026
Noun
  • However, certain features—like real-time GPS tracking, escape alerts, activity tracking and custom voice commands—typically require a subscription plan.
    Rachel Cortez, USA Today, 8 June 2026
  • With almost tai chi–like precision, Roth embraced softness, ritual, and fluidity as forms of power, evoking a lineage of feminine influence rooted not in force but in elegance, psychological command, and presence.
    Thomas Rom, ARTnews.com, 8 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Proficiency.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/proficiency. Accessed 11 Jun. 2026.

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