English Reference
Noun

proficiency

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

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.

Usage

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

Pitfall
his proficiency of Frenchhis proficiency in French

Proficiency is almost always paired with the preposition 'in' rather than 'of' when describing a skill.

Within the past 10 years, many schools have invested in evidence-based reading instruction , with a renewed emphasis in phonics instruction to improve students’ reading proficiency.

The Conversation· 7 Jul 2026

The pattern remained after we accounted for health status, English proficiency, financial hardship, education, employment, insurance coverage and time in the U.S.

The Conversation· 12 Aug 2026

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

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Latin prōficiēns
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Frequent
Updated