What does proficiency mean?
Proficiency means having a high level of skill, competence, or command in something. The word is commonly used in education and employment, as in language proficiency or professional proficiency, and can imply that ability has been developed through practice, study, and experience. It is more specific than simply having an opportunity or a basic knowledge: proficiency suggests a capable and accomplished level of performance. In language learning, it describes how well someone understands and uses a language. In professional contexts, it may describe advanced expertise in a technical, creative, or occupational skill. Although proficiency is usually positive, it can occasionally sound formal and should not be used to imply that a person lacks practical experience entirely.
nounA high degree of skill or ability in doing something, especially through sustained effort or practice. It can also refer to command of a language or a subject.
- A high degree of skill, competence, or command in an activity, field, or language.
"Years of practice gave her a high level of proficiency in conversational Japanese."
"The course is designed for students who already have a good level of proficiency in French."
"His proficiency with technical instruments earned him a place on the research team."
The plural is used for different areas of skill or for levels of ability in multiple languages or subjects.
"His proficiencies in languages and mathematics were impressive."
Proficiency is skill that has been refined: knowing how is one thing, mastering how is another.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does proficiency come from?
The word comes through Old French from Latin proficientia, a noun meaning advancement or progress, derived from the Latin present participle proficiens, 'advancing' or 'making progress.' The underlying Latin verb proficere meant 'to advance', 'to benefit', or 'to make progress toward'. English borrowed the word in the late medieval period, when it referred especially to progress or advancement, before its modern sense of skill or competence became established.
Related word forms
How proficiency is actually used
Generally formal but widely used in education, employment, and language learning. It describes a well-developed level of ability, often greater than basic familiarity.
Easily confused with proficiency
Proficiency refers to a person's skill or command, whereas efficiency refers to the effectiveness and economy of a process or action.