proficiency
noun
pro·fi·cien·cy
prə-ˈfi-shən(t)-sē 
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
Under the standards, commercial motor vehicle drivers who fail English proficiency tests will be placed out of service.
—
Bonny Chu, FOXNews.com, 12 Feb. 2026
But some experts said the holster and its placement – at the individual’s groin area – suggest this person lacks proficiency with firearms.
—Dakin Andone, CNN Money, 11 Feb. 2026
Math proficiency rose to 23%, continuing a gradual increase.
—Nina Burns, CBS News, 10 Feb. 2026
His pass-catching proficiency is unmatched.
—Michael-Shawn Dugar, New York Times, 9 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for proficiency
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Bonny Chu, FOXNews.com, 12 Feb. 2026
But some experts said the holster and its placement – at the individual’s groin area – suggest this person lacks proficiency with firearms.
—Dakin Andone, CNN Money, 11 Feb. 2026
Math proficiency rose to 23%, continuing a gradual increase.
—Nina Burns, CBS News, 10 Feb. 2026
His pass-catching proficiency is unmatched.
—Michael-Shawn Dugar, New York Times, 9 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for proficiency
Cite this Entry
“Proficiency.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/proficiency. Accessed 16 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
proficiency
noun
pro·fi·cien·cy
prə-ˈfish-ən-sē
plural proficiencies
: the quality or state of being proficient
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