Proficient

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Proficient" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who has a high level of skill or competence in a particular area or subject. Example: "She is proficient in multiple programming languages, which makes her an asset to the development team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The biggest threat to airplanes comes from a single highly proficient bombmaker in the Yemen.

The Guardian

We practised tacking into the wind and gybing with it at our backs and became proficient in tying up to buoys and jetties, anchoring, tying knots... Now all we had to do was persuade someone to hire a £200,000 yacht for as little money as possible to a group of people with virtually no experience.

The Guardian - Travel

Despite my 10-year-old daughter being a proficient reader, with, I'm told, a reading age beyond her years, I can't get her to pick up a book.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Click to view Miley Cyrus's We Can't Stop here What we said: "Bands this proficient can easily end up making pointlessly masturbatory virtuoso-rock.

The Guardian - Music

His clients returned from their initial trips to China stunned by how quickly factories became proficient and puzzled by how much could be done so well, so fast, so cheaply.

The Economist

Fifteen states labelled a child "proficient" when the NCES would have called her skills "basic"; 35 bestowed that honour on children performing at "below basic" level.In this section You're going to get wet Redemption song Playing God Raising the bar Let them drive Machiavelli v Torquemada Chris Christie's tightrope ReprintsSmall wonder parents are crying out for grades that mean something.

The Economist

All students would be proficient in reading and maths by 2014.

The Economist

It incorporates Google Earth mapping software, largely for the same reason: most recruits are already proficient users.What's next?

The Economist

Those students at Gail Pond Alamo deemed "limited English proficient" had a 90% pass rate on the reading test, up from 29% in 1996.The turnaround is not unique.

The Economist

Many people who attend Chinese schools are also proficient in English.

The Economist

Telephones required more wires but no real expertise, like being proficient at Morse code.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for impactful writing, consider swapping "proficient" with words like "adept" or "accomplished" to add nuance, depending on the context.

Common error

Avoid using "proficient" without specifying the skill. Saying someone is "proficient" is less impactful than saying they are "proficient in data analysis" or "proficient in Python programming".

Linguistic Context

The adjective "proficient" primarily functions to describe a noun, indicating a high degree of competence or skill in a particular area. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across varied contexts, highlighting its role in qualifying an individual's or entity's abilities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "proficient" is a widely used and grammatically sound adjective for describing a high level of skill or competence, as confirmed by Ludwig. It frequently appears in news, business, and scientific contexts. When writing, ensure the specific skill is clearly specified for maximum impact. Consider related terms like "skilled", "adept", or "expert" to add nuance. Ludwig's analysis of numerous examples underscores its versatility and importance in expressing capability. Always provide context to enhance clarity and precision when using "proficient".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Skilled

Focuses on the general possession of skill, without necessarily implying a high level of expertise.

Adept

Emphasizes natural ability and quickness in learning a skill.

Competent

Indicates a satisfactory level of skill, sufficient to perform tasks adequately.

Expert

Implies a very high level of skill and knowledge in a particular field.

Accomplished

Highlights achievements and mastery in a specific area.

Masterful

Suggests exceptional skill and control, often in a creative or artistic context.

Talented

Emphasizes innate ability and natural aptitude.

Qualified

Highlights that somebody has all the qualifications to execute a task well.

Versed

Suggests a thorough knowledge and understanding of a subject.

Well-versed

Indicates deep knowledge and extensive experience in a particular field.

FAQs

How do you use "proficient" in a sentence?

Use "proficient" to describe someone who is highly skilled or competent in a particular area. For example, "She is a "proficient in multiple programming languages"".

What are some synonyms for "proficient"?

Synonyms for "proficient" include "skilled", "adept", "competent", and "expert". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired nuance.

Is it better to say "proficient at" or "proficient in"?

Both "proficient at" and "proficient in" are acceptable, but "proficient in" is generally more common and often preferred, especially when referring to a subject or area of expertise. For example, "proficient in English" sounds more natural than "proficient at English".

What's the difference between "proficient" and "competent"?

"Proficient" implies a higher degree of skill and expertise than "competent". While being competent means you can perform a task adequately, being "proficient" suggests a higher level of mastery and efficiency. Consider "skilled" or "adept depending on the context".