proficiency

/prəˈfɪʃənsi/
skill or expertise in a particular area

She demonstrated remarkable proficiency in playing the piano.

She showed a high level of skill and expertise in playing the piano.


formal

The state of being highly skilled or knowledgeable in a particular subject or activity.

His proficiency in Spanish allowed him to communicate effectively with native speakers.

His high level of skill in Spanish helped him communicate well with native speakers.

Often used in educational, professional, or technical contexts to describe competence.

Collocations

proficiency ina high level of skill or knowledge in a specific areademonstrate proficiencyto show one's skill or expertise in a particular area

Related Phrases

proficiency testphrase
an assessment to measure one's skill or knowledge in a specific area

Pro Tip

Usage Tip

Use 'proficiency' to describe a high level of skill or knowledge, often in formal or professional contexts.

Gold Rule

Correct Usage

Avoid using 'proficiency' to describe basic or average skills; it implies a high level of competence.

Word Origin

From Middle French 'proficience' (14th century), from Latin 'proficientia', meaning 'progress, advancement'.

Usage Notes

Often used in formal contexts to describe a high level of ability or knowledge. Can refer to language skills, technical abilities, or general expertise.

Word Breakdown

proficient
skilled or knowledgeable
root
+
-ency
state or condition of
suffix
English Dictionary