PROFICIENCY Synonyms: 31 Similar and Opposite Words

proficiency

noun

prə-ˈfi-shən(t)-sē

Definition of proficiency

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

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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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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 In the scene, Simon’s family speaks Kreyòl — although to varying degrees of proficiency — and the camera lingers on the Haitian feast presented on the table. — Leah Asmelash, CNN Money, 4 Oct. 2026 Improving reading and math proficiency for public school students to ensure all have an opportunity to succeed. — Mary Ramsey, Charlotte Observer, 2 Oct. 2026 He will long be remembered and revered for his durability and loyalty to the Falcons and his proficiency at his craft. — Daniel Flick, AJC.com, 2 Oct. 2026 After five consecutive seasons in the NHL’s top eight in power-play proficiency, the Avs slipped all the way to 27th last year. — Corey Masisak, Denver Post, 2 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for proficiency

Recent Examples of Synonyms for proficiency

Noun

Dilraba Dilmurat plays the team’s star striker, while Lay Zhang serves as its kung fu mentor, helping the players combine martial arts mastery with soccer skills to overcome formidable opponents and setbacks on and off the field.

— Patrick Brzeski, HollywoodReporter, 14 Oct. 2026
Research suggests vacations involving mastery experiences, such as learning a new skill or taking on a challenge, can have lasting benefits, with one study linking them to greater wellbeing one month later.

— Julia Eskins, Vogue, 14 Oct. 2026

Definition of mastery

Noun

Rather than exclusively focusing on what’s wrong with our mental health, one approach is to develop skills, traits, and perspectives that can help us.

— Joan M. Cook, Time, 17 Oct. 2026
Eight finalists will compete in a series of challenges inspired by the skills required to make each and every order.

— Mya Copeland, Variety, 16 Oct. 2026

Definition of skills

Noun

He is known for his soft touch, luxury fabric and leather expertise, and ability to work across ready-to-wear, footwear and accessories.

— Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 13 Oct. 2026
But their local expertise, connections, courage, and instincts could stave off death or captivity.

— Ben Taub, New Yorker, 12 Oct. 2026

Definition of expertise

Noun

Hooper has been a revelation with his physicality and high IQ, producing a team-high 27 tackles despite not starting in the season opener against North Carolina.

— Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 12 Oct. 2026
Various tests have given him a wide range of IQ scores, with one at 67 and another at 113.

— Thomas Lake, AJC.com, 7 Oct. 2026

Definition of IQ

Noun

Huang, who had long hoped to work with Yen, says the director’s shorts showed rare command of performance and sound and image, along with an honest grasp of adolescence.

— Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 11 Oct. 2026
The four-year ceasefire with the Houthis was already fragile, and the rapid UAE withdrawal as demanded by Riyadh left thousands of fighters who had spent a decade under Abu Dhabi’s command disoriented by Riyadh’s strategy.

— Mostafa Salem, CNN Money, 10 Oct. 2026

Definition of command

Browse Nearby Words

proficiencies

proficiency

proficient

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Style

“Proficiency.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/proficiency. Accessed 17 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of proficiency

noun

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