English Reference
noun

fluency

n.
US /ˈfɫuənsi/ UK /flˈuːənsi/ flu·en·cy UK spelling fluencies

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    the ability to speak, read, or write a language easily, quickly, and without many mistakes.

    the quality of being able to speak or write a particular language with ease and accuracy. Uncountable in this general sense.

    Simple

    After living in Madrid for a year, her fluency in Spanish improved a lot.

    In context

    The job description requires native-level fluency in both Mandarin and English to facilitate high-level negotiations between the two offices.

    Pitfall
    He has a great fluency in English. He has great fluency in English.

    When talking about language ability, 'fluency' is usually uncountable and does not take the article 'a'.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Academic

    the quality of moving or speaking in a smooth way without stopping or making mistakes.

    the quality of being smooth and effortless in flow, whether in physical movement, speech, or the execution of a practiced skill.

    Simple

    The dancer moved with such fluency that she seemed to float across the stage.

    In context

    The pianist performed the difficult concerto with remarkable fluency, navigating the complex transitions without a single moment of hesitation.

    clumsinesshesitation
  3. 03 C1 Advanced Technical

    the ability to do something well and quickly because you have practiced it many times.

    the state of being well-practiced in a skill to the point where it requires little deliberate thought to perform accurately.

    Simple

    The programmer showed great fluency in several different coding languages.

    In context

    Mathematical fluency involves not just knowing the formulas, but being able to apply them flexibly to solve unfamiliar problems.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated