ENGLISH
REFERENCE

proficiency

n. uncountable
C1 Advanced US //pɹəˈfɪʃənsi// UK //pɹəfˈɪʃənsi// pro·fi·cien·cy

n. a high level of skill or knowledge in a particular subject or activity. You have this when you can do something very well, like speaking a language or using a computer.

n. a high degree of competence or expertise in a specific skill or field of knowledge. Often refers to the mastery of a language or technical ability.


SIMPLE

She has a high level of proficiency in English.

CONTEXTUAL

The job description requires candidates to demonstrate proficiency in at least two programming languages.

COMPLEX

While basic communication is achievable within months, true linguistic proficiency requires years of immersion and a deep understanding of cultural nuances that go beyond mere grammar.

Synonyms
Origin

From proficient or its etymon, Latin prōficiēns (present participle of prōficiō), + -ency.

Usage

Frequently followed by the preposition 'in' to specify the field of expertise.

Pitfall

his proficiency of Frenchhis proficiency in FrenchProficiency is almost always paired with the preposition 'in' rather than 'of' when describing a skill.

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