became proficient with

USAGE SUMMARY

"became proficient with" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It means to have developed a high level of skill or expertise in a particular area. Example: After months of practice, she became proficient with playing the piano and was able to perform complex pieces flawlessly.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

With this many developers, on fast moving projects, we rapidly became proficient with rebasing and resolving merge conflicts.

The Guardian

During the year, students became proficient with creating Microsoft PowerPoint presentations and researching topics online, using Kidrex.

The New York Times

Though I loved my assistantship and became proficient with the use of many high-tech instruments for characterizing materials, there was something missing amidst the wonder of the submicron world.

Science Magazine

But only those three males, such as the one in the photo above, became proficient with the tool and successfully retrieved the nuts, the scientists report online today in the Proceedings of the Royal Society B. None of the females did so; nor did any of the birds, male or female, in the ghost demonstrator group.

Science Magazine

John became proficient with Bill's medications as Parkinson's crept into their 50-year relationship.

Huffington Post

After studying some game theory, she became proficient with the Rubik's Cube and then chess.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Before jumping into video mixing, many become proficient with software like Adobe Premiere or Final Cut Pro.

The New York Times - Tech

In this post we describe how to to use The Times to address the Common Core and help students become proficient with "informational text".

The New York Times

As a boy he helped out in the store and took up the violin, and by his high school years had become proficient with the instrument.

Encyclopedia Britannica

I have followed Philippe's advice and signed up for a class at the climbing centre up the road, so that I can become proficient with ropes and carabiners and practise being up high.

The Guardian - Travel

They highlight three examples of concepts that children need to become proficient with: addition, angles, and rate of change.

Functional Linguistics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "became proficient with" to clearly indicate the development of a specific skill or expertise through practice or learning.

Common error

Avoid using "became proficient with" when describing only initial exposure or basic understanding of a subject. The phrase implies a significant level of skill and practical application, not just familiarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "became proficient with" functions as a verb phrase complement, indicating the attainment of skill or expertise in relation to a specific tool, method, or technology. Ludwig's examples showcase its use across varied contexts, illustrating a progression towards mastery.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "became proficient with" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed phrase that describes the development of expertise or skill. Ludwig has identified its primary contexts as News & Media, Wiki, and Science. It is suitable for neutral and formal registers, and while not as common as simpler alternatives, it effectively conveys the acquisition of a specific competence. Ludwig AI confirms its accurate usage in written English, highlighting its role in showcasing personal and professional growth.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

developed skill in

Highlights the process of skill development, suggesting gradual improvement.

became adept at

Indicates a natural talent or quick learning ability.

grew skilled at

Suggests a gradual increase in skill over time.

gained expertise in

Focuses on the acquisition of deep knowledge or skill, implying a more comprehensive understanding.

acquired competence in

Emphasizes the achievement of a satisfactory level of skill or knowledge.

mastered the art of

Implies a high level of skill and artistry, often used for creative or complex activities.

became well-versed in

Suggests a thorough understanding and practical knowledge.

honed abilities in

Focuses on refining existing skills to a higher level of precision.

excelled in the use of

Highlights outstanding performance and superior skill.

cultivated a talent for

Implies nurturing and developing a natural aptitude.

FAQs

How can I use "became proficient with" in a sentence?

You can use "became proficient with" to describe someone who has developed a high level of skill or expertise in a particular area, such as "After months of practice, she "became proficient with" the piano".

What are some alternatives to "became proficient with"?

Alternatives include "gained expertise in", "developed skill in", or "mastered the art of", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "became proficient at" instead of "became proficient with"?

While "became proficient at" is grammatically correct, "became proficient with" is often used when referring to tools, instruments, or specific methods. Both are acceptable, but context may favor one over the other.

What's the difference between "became familiar with" and "became proficient with"?

"Became familiar with" implies a basic understanding or awareness, while "became proficient with" suggests a high level of skill and practical ability. One can "become familiar with" a concept quickly, but "became proficient with" requires practice and expertise.