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

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 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 See All Example Sentences for proficiency
Recent Examples of Synonyms for proficiency
Noun
  • That combination of domain mastery, systems fluency and outcome ownership is genuinely rare.
    — Ali Alkhafaji, Forbes.com, 25 Sep. 2026
  • In the eyewear industry, this heritage is expressed through a distinctive way of creating products where design, technical mastery, and artisanal know-how come together.
    — Martino Carrera, Footwear News, 21 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • Agent tech stack Other in-demand skills related to the AI build-out involve understanding tools and techniques that give agents the ability to get things done.
    — Hugh Son, CNBC, 2 Oct. 2026
  • Developed in partnership with Discovery Education, a cross-curricular supplemental resource, the program equips students with practical clothing repair and customization skills, from sewing a button to patching a hole or tailoring a hem.
    — Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 2 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • But our latest research shows how these tombs – built for Etruscans of higher socioeconomic and political status—were designed to offer sophisticated sensory experiences.
    — Jacqueline Ortoleva, Scientific American, 3 Oct. 2026
  • The service is intended to provide a more streamlined travel experience, including access to private terminals rather than crowded commercial airport facilities.
    — Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 3 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • The company will look at the emerging role of AI in dubbing and how hybrid workflows combining technology and human expertise could support the localization of content for international markets.
    — Anna Marie de la Fuente, Variety, 29 Sep. 2026
  • Robertet is bringing its fragrance expertise to the dinner table.
    — Kathryn Hopkins, Footwear News, 29 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • In the first two quarters, Miami quarterback Darian Mensah threw 12 passes 5 yards or fewer downfield, and the plays were successful 73 percent of the time, according to Hudl IQ data.
    — Adam Lichtenstein, Sun Sentinel, 23 Sep. 2026
  • Those who already have a Peloton Tread+ can also expect new AI-powered coaching features via Peloton IQ.
    — Bee Wertheimer, PC Magazine, 22 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • The command later determined that the North violated the armistice agreement that ended fighting in the 1950-53 Korean War.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 4 Oct. 2026
  • The suspect ignored the commands, according to police, and instead got back in his car and drove toward Interstate 30.
    — Harriet Ramos, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 4 Oct. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Proficiency.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/proficiency. Accessed 5 Oct. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!