Definition of proficiencynext
1
as in mastery
a highly developed skill in or knowledge of something surprised by his proficiency at the game after only the briefest explanation of the rules

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2
as in skills
knowledge gained by actually doing or living through something acquired proficiency at golf through long hours of practice

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of proficiency Retake scores aren’t used in official proficiency data for the district, or in state and federal report cards. Bri Hatch, Chalkbeat, 11 May 2026 Yet, if the goals did not initially return once he was shifted back to No 8 in December 2024, Guimaraes has really rediscovered his scoring proficiency in 2025-26 — whether when deployed as a No 8, or even when he has been used deeper. Chris Waugh, New York Times, 8 May 2026 The results demonstrate that the team has established courtroom proficiency through extensive preparation in challenging personal injury cases. Daniel Fusch, USA Today, 8 May 2026 My history suggests very successful proficiencies in this model. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 7 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for proficiency
Recent Examples of Synonyms for proficiency
Noun
  • Henderson wants to make standardized testing less high-stakes, in part by tracking metrics that show students’ mastery beforehand.
    Jemma Stephenson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 May 2026
  • It’s been pure mastery from Schlittler on the mound.
    Chris Kirschner, New York Times, 16 May 2026
Noun
  • Seen from this perspective, music seems not merely like an activity that builds cognitive skills, but perhaps even more essentially like an activity that builds social connection.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 20 May 2026
  • Asked what her plans are post-graduation, Li admitted her basic printing skills could improve, hopefully with assistance from someone at Dries Van Noten.
    Ari Stark, Footwear News, 19 May 2026
Noun
  • Amenities and experiences The huge draw?
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 May 2026
  • Seth and Lauren, who have been married since 2011, have been vocal about their personal experiences with Alzheimer's disease.
    Jack Smart, PEOPLE, 19 May 2026
Noun
  • In short, businesses may benefit from presenting clear expertise and credibility within their field, as AI systems often prioritize authoritative and well-structured information.
    Daniel Fusch, USA Today, 14 May 2026
  • With a mix of regional expertise and global execution in factories across Asia and Central America, Hansae is building strong partnerships and establishing itself as a go-to source for more than just manufacturing.
    SJ Studio, Footwear News, 14 May 2026
Noun
  • Take my fun Evolution IQ Test to find out.
    Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 15 May 2026
  • Busby’s defense attorneys, Jack Strickland and Steve Gordon, argued that Busby’s poor upbringing, low IQ, learning disabilities and chronic drug and alcohol use merited a life sentence.
    Emerson Clarridge, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 15 May 2026
Noun
  • After the Pistons scored the first two baskets of the second, Cleveland answered with a 24-9 run to take command and carried a 64-47 advantage into halftime.
    ABC News, ABC News, 18 May 2026
  • So here was the United States, one command away from an accidental nuclear war… all because of some janky phone circuits.
    Laura Isensee, Scientific American, 18 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Proficiency.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/proficiency. Accessed 21 May. 2026.

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