Synonyms

proficiency

American

[pruh-fish-uhn-see] / prəˈfɪʃ ən si /

noun

the state of being proficient; skill; expertness.

proficiency in music.

Other Word Forms

overproficiency noun

Etymology

Origin of proficiency

First recorded in 1535–45; from Latin prōfici(ēns) “advancing” ( proficient ) + -ency

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

On “Oboe Blues,” he plays the three horns to introduce a theme, and then switches to the double-reed instrument, and shows considerable proficiency on that as well.

From The Wall Street Journal

Many truckers quit the industry after the introduction of enhanced English proficiency tests, where highway inspectors check for language proficiency and highway traffic sign competency.

From Los Angeles Times

Studies also found that math proficiency improved as a result of the reforms, and that higher-performing teachers moved to districts that rewarded merit.

From The Wall Street Journal

So Cignetti put his own spin on The Process: Drill to the point of proficiency, and not a second more.

From The Wall Street Journal

Problems also arise when patients have limited English proficiency.

From The Wall Street Journal

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023