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 fatal collision shocked South Florida’s Haitian community and quickly entered the national debate over immigration and commercial truck driver licenses because of Singh’s undocumented status and questions about his English proficiency. Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 11 June 2026 Industries exporting to China will need workers with quality control capabilities, logistics coordination experience and, increasingly, Mandarin proficiency. Alex Daruty, Forbes.com, 11 June 2026 Nickens was awarded the State Proficiency title in the Agriculture Mechanics Repair and Maintenance Placement proficiency category after advancing as the first-place winner in both the San Diego Section and Southern Region levels. Stephanie Ogilvie, San Diego Union-Tribune, 10 June 2026 On Saturday, standout moments included Kaitlin Butts delivering one of the most memorable acts of the day with her Chevy Riverfront Stage set, merging humor, charm and country music proficiency across her portfolio of fan-favorite tracks. Chris Barilla, PEOPLE, 9 June 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
  • Agile thinking, change navigation, resource optimization and critical thinking to name a few, frequently determine outcomes more effectively than technical expertise alone.
    Michael Edmondson, Forbes.com, 11 June 2026
  • Founded in Manzano, province of Udine, in 1919, Potocco is internationally recognized for its expertise in woodworking and refined Italian craftsmanship.
    Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 11 June 2026
Noun
  • Challenge your snake and herpetology knowledge with my fun Reptile & Amphibian IQ Test.
    Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 12 June 2026
  • Disneyland has been issued a permit by the city of Anaheim to rebuild a New Orleans Square train station building that was damaged by fire, according to Theme Park IQ.
    Brady MacDonald, Oc Register, 9 June 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 14 Jun. 2026.

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