proficiency

noun

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

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
Recent Examples on the Web The following year 28 teachers began testing new ways to measure students’ proficiency. Dublin Unified’s superintendent Chris Funk explained at a board meeting last year that the district’s grading system wasn’t consistent across all schools, which caused issues in the classroom. Molly Gibbs, The Mercury News, 19 Apr. 2024 Based on state assessment proficiency and survey responses on academics from students and parents. Eleanor Nash, Kansas City Star, 3 Apr. 2024 As a well-rounded artist, Evelin has demonstrated exceptional proficiency across various artistic disciplines, showcasing her versatility and depth of talent. Heide Janssen, Orange County Register, 17 Mar. 2024 Pollio asked the committee if other Kentucky school districts with similar proficiency rates would face an investigation and why legislators won't spend more time focused on the issues plaguing all districts. Krista Johnson, The Courier-Journal, 6 Mar. 2024 The bright college student had lost her ability to write with proficiency, do mental arithmetic, name common objects, or copy a simple diagram. R Douglas Fields, WIRED, 31 Mar. 2024 These services provide tax preparation or guidance only to low- and moderate-income taxpayers who meet the income limits, or who have disabilities or limited English proficiency. Jon Healey, Los Angeles Times, 29 Mar. 2024 Gabby’s proficiency extends beyond traditional art, encompassing different mediums and styles, showcasing her adaptability and creativity. Heide Janssen, Orange County Register, 17 Mar. 2024 The analysis also uncovered that Latina women are more likely than Latino men to hold a bachelor’s degree, regardless of age group, country of origin, veteran status or English proficiency. Emi Tuyetnhi Tran, NBC News, 1 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'proficiency.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1544, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of proficiency was in 1544

Dictionary Entries Near proficiency

Cite this Entry

“Proficiency.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/proficiency. Accessed 26 Apr. 2024.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on proficiency

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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