proficiency

noun

pro·​fi·​cien·​cy prə-ˈfi-shən(t)-sē How to pronounce proficiency (audio)
Synonyms of proficiencynext
1
: advancement in knowledge or skill : progress
2
: the quality or state of being proficient

Synonyms of proficiency

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Examples of proficiency in a Sentence

surprised by his proficiency at the game after only the briefest explanation of the rules acquired proficiency at golf through long hours of practice
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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.
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 The study also found no relationship between the number of assessments students took and their proficiency or growth in English or mathematics. — Liza Bondurant, The Conversation, 19 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for proficiency

Word History

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of proficiency was in 1597

Rhymes for proficiency

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proficience
proficiency
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Cite this Entry

“Proficiency.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/proficiency. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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Kids Definition

proficiency

noun
pro·​fi·​cien·​cy prə-ˈfish-ən-sē How to pronounce proficiency (audio)
plural proficiencies
: the quality or state of being proficient
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