attaining proficiency

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "attaining proficiency" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the process of becoming skilled or competent in a particular area or subject. Example: "After months of practice, she is finally attaining proficiency in playing the piano."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

In recent years, since the greater emphasis was placed on practical speaking, the percentage of students attaining proficiency has increased to more than 80percentt now from 29percentt in 1985.

The New York Times

For those students not attaining proficiency, the state mandates "academic intervention services".

Huffington Post

Students who obtain the Seal of Biliteracy will be recognized for studying and attaining proficiency in two or more languages by the time they graduate high school.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

How long does it take English learners to attain proficiency?

Stanford University

Passed in 2002, the law rates schools on how students perform on reading and math tests, pressuring districts to focus resources on students struggling to attain proficiency.

The New York Times

When performance feedback was provided, all instructors attained proficiency ratings of 90% by the second session and 97 100% by the fourth session.

Research in Developmental Disabilities

For example, in 2011, 92% of Biology students attained proficiency on Biology MCAS, 90% did so in 2010, and in 2007, 95% of students passed these competency requirements for high school graduation.

Harvard University

Mechelli et al.42 found a common site of grey matter density increase in early and late bilinguals compared to monolinguals in the left inferior parietal cortex; the degree of the increase was modulated by the attained proficiency and AoA of the L2.

Nature

The majority of 3rd and 4th graders in the region have attained proficiency at Level 1, although more than one in ten children are unable to meet this benchmark in all countries save Argentina, Brazil, and Chile.

Latin American Economic Review

The foreign language requirement may be met in different ways, depending upon the level at which students begin the study of the language in question, but every graduate of Trinity College is expected to attain proficiency at least equivalent to that of the first intermediate course in that language.

Duke University

Foreign Language (FL) (1 to 3 Courses Required) The foreign language requirement may be met in different ways, depending upon the level at which students begin the study of the language in question, but every graduate of Trinity College is expected to attain proficiency at least equivalent to that of the first intermediate course in that language.

Duke University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "attaining proficiency" when you want to emphasize the process of gaining skill or competence in a specific area. It suggests a journey towards a defined level of expertise.

Common error

While "attaining proficiency" is correct, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider using simpler alternatives like "getting better at" or "improving in" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "attaining proficiency" functions as a verbal phrase acting as a noun modifier. It describes the action of reaching a skilled level in something. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Academia

33%

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "attaining proficiency" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that describes the process of gaining competence or skill in a particular area. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is suitable for formal contexts such as academic writing, professional reports, and technical documentation. While alternatives like "achieving competence" or "gaining mastery" exist, "attaining proficiency" specifically emphasizes the journey toward a defined level of expertise. When using this phrase, consider the audience and context to ensure the level of formality is appropriate. The most frequent contexts are Academia, News & Media and Science.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

acquiring proficiency

Focuses on the act of getting proficiency.

achieving competence

Focuses more on reaching a basic level of skill, rather than a high level.

obtaining competence

Similar to "achieving competence", but can imply a more formal or structured process.

mastering a skill

Signifies a complete and thorough understanding and ability in a particular area.

gaining mastery

Implies a deeper level of understanding and skill than simply becoming proficient.

becoming adept

Indicates a high degree of skill and dexterity.

developing expertise

Highlights the process of acquiring specialized knowledge and skills.

securing expertise

Suggests a more deliberate and effortful process of gaining expertise.

reaching fluency

More commonly used in the context of language learning, indicating ease and accuracy.

cultivating skill

Emphasizes the gradual and nurturing process of developing a skill.

FAQs

How can I use "attaining proficiency" in a sentence?

You can use "attaining proficiency" to describe the process of gaining competence in a specific skill or area of knowledge. For example, "She is focused on "attaining proficiency" in data analysis to advance her career."

What are some alternatives to "attaining proficiency"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "achieving competence", "gaining mastery", or "developing expertise". Each alternative carries a slightly different nuance related to the level of skill and depth of knowledge.

Is it better to say "attaining proficiency" or "achieving proficiency"?

Both "attaining proficiency" and "achieving proficiency" are correct and usable. "Attaining" emphasizes the process of reaching a certain level, while "achieving" highlights the successful completion. The choice depends on the desired emphasis.

What level of formality does "attaining proficiency" convey?

"Attaining proficiency" conveys a relatively formal tone. It's suitable for academic, professional, and technical contexts. In more casual settings, simpler phrases may be more appropriate.