# proficiency

/pɹəˈfɪʃənsi/ (US) · /pɹəfˈɪʃənsi/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/proficiency
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

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.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- She has a high level of proficiency in English.
- The job description requires candidates to demonstrate proficiency in at least two programming languages.
- 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.

## Pitfalls

- Not "his proficiency of French" but "his proficiency in French" — Proficiency is almost always paired with the preposition 'in' rather than 'of' when describing a skill.

## Usage notes

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

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.