General proficiency

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "General proficiency" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a broad level of skill or competence in a particular area or subject. Example: "The job requires general proficiency in computer software, as well as specific knowledge of our internal systems."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

It is a hellacious challenge, defending this Pistol formation, operated by this San Francisco team, with its speedy quarterback and its read-option tendencies and its general proficiency at scoring a lot of points and gaining a lot of yards.

The New York Times - Sports

However, both the GEPT and EPE are "general" proficiency exams.

Language Testing in Asia

Therefore, Criterion® holistic scores seem to be an indicator of L2 general proficiency or writing proficiency in L2 use settings.

Language Testing in Asia

Through three overarching main approaches of language testing theory: structural, functional, and general proficiency, applied linguists attempt to provide definition to language knowledge and use.

Language Testing in Asia

Also, since both exams are "general" proficiency exams, the strong correlation to the GEPT suggests that the EPE may have concurrent validity similar to that of the GEPT.

Language Testing in Asia

In addition, in the lower proficiency group, the scores of neither item type correlated significantly with general proficiency; in the higher proficiency group, however, the items with semantically related distractors, as opposed to those with unrelated distractors, correlated significantly with learners' general proficiency.

Asian-Pacific Journal of Second and Foreign Language Education

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

As for RQ2, the data suggest that there is a generally positive relationship between general English proficiency (at least, as measured by the QPT), the level of classroom participation observed, and L2 learners with PO or GAO learning style orientations.

Language Testing in Asia

The results showed the following in both speaker groups: (1) LexTALE was a good predictor of English vocabulary knowledge; 2) it also correlated substantially with a measure of general English proficiency; and 3) LexTALE was generally superior to self-ratings in its predictions.

Behavior Research Methods

In general, high proficiency females were more likely to employ [L] and less likely to employ [Z] than mid proficiency ones regardless of vowel contexts.

Lingua Sinica

The test was used in order to check the participants' general language proficiency level.

Asian-Pacific Journal of Second and Foreign Language Education

General English Proficiency Test (GEPT Advanced Writing Taskk 1 was used in this study.

Language Testing in Asia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing job requirements, use "General proficiency" to indicate a necessary baseline skill level without specifying expert knowledge. For example, "The role requires general proficiency in data analysis."

Common error

Avoid using "General proficiency" when expert-level skills are actually needed. Clearly specify 'Expert proficiency' or 'Advanced skills' to accurately reflect requirements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "General proficiency" functions as a noun phrase, where "general" modifies the noun "proficiency". It describes a level of competence or skill in a particular area. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is considered correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "General proficiency" is a grammatically correct and commonly used term to describe a baseline level of skill or competence. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English. Predominantly found in scientific, news, and formal business contexts, it serves to indicate a necessary skill level without implying expert knowledge. When using this term, it's crucial to ensure it accurately reflects the skill level required, avoiding its use when advanced expertise is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Overall competence

Focuses on the comprehensive ability to perform a task, slightly broader than proficiency.

Basic skill level

Emphasizes foundational skills, suggesting a lower degree of expertise compared to proficiency.

Adequate capability

Highlights the sufficiency of skills for a specific purpose.

Sufficient expertise

Similar to proficiency, but can imply a more specialized skill set.

Functional knowledge

Focuses on practical application of knowledge rather than comprehensive skill.

Working knowledge

Implies a practical understanding sufficient for performing tasks.

Practical skill

Highlights the hands-on ability to do something effectively.

Familiarity

Suggests a basic understanding and acquaintance with a subject or skill.

Competent handling

Emphasizes the ability to manage or deal with something effectively.

Rudimentary ability

Indicates a basic or initial level of skill.

FAQs

How do you use "General proficiency" in a sentence?

You can use "General proficiency" to describe a baseline level of skill or competence needed in a particular area. For example, "The software requires "general proficiency" in Microsoft Office."

What's the difference between "General proficiency" and "Advanced proficiency"?

"General proficiency" refers to a basic level of competence, while "Advanced proficiency" implies a higher level of expertise and skill. The former suggests basic capability, while the latter indicates mastery.

What can I say instead of "General proficiency"?

You can use alternatives such as "overall competence", "basic skill level", or "adequate capability" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "General proficiency in" or "General proficiency at"?

Both "General proficiency in" and "General proficiency at" are grammatically correct. The choice depends on context, with "in" often used for subjects and "at" for activities. For example, "General proficiency in mathematics" or "General proficiency at coding".