Synonyms of proficiency

proficiency

noun

prə-ˈfi-shən(t)-sē 

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

• mastery
• experience
• IQ
• mastership
• command
• expertise
• fluency
• facility
• practice
• virtuosity
• literacy
• skill(s)
• familiarity
• acquaintance
• intimacy
• know-how
• hang

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• incompetence
• incompetency
• ignorance
• illiteracy
• unfamiliarity

2

as in skills

knowledge gained by actually doing or living through something

acquired proficiency at golf through long hours of practice

Synonyms & Similar Words

• skills
• experience
• expertise
• chops
• know-how
• savvy
• background
• mastery
• moxie
• familiarity
• acquaintance
• intimacy
• conversance
• command

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• inexperience
• ignorance
• unfamiliarity
• unawareness

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of proficiency

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

Translate the future operating model into specific capabilities and realistic proficiency levels. — Kevin Chan, Forbes.com, 9 Sep. 2026