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

Soon the har gao arrived–traditional Cantonese shrimp dumplings that are a quintessential yardstick by which to measure the proficiency of a dim sum chef. — Christopher Solomon, Travel + Leisure, 28 Oct. 2026

In the 1960s and ’70s, Mexican women with limited English proficiency were forcibly sterilized at the Los Angeles County-USC Medical Center, leading to a civil rights lawsuit that was decided in favor of the center. — Frannie Comstock, Encyclopedia Britannica, 23 Oct. 2026

Aside from his mobility/ability to escape pressure and his proficiency in throwing on the run (two very valuable skills), Willis hasn’t done anything else at even an average level of what’s expected from a franchise quarterback. — Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 21 Oct. 2026

Additional data that may be compromised include Disability and Section 504 status, eligibility for certain programs and English language proficiency information statewide assessment registration, participation and results. — Tim Fang, CBS News, 20 Oct. 2026