become proficient in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "become proficient in" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the process of gaining skill or expertise in a particular area or subject. Example: "To advance in your career, it is essential to become proficient in the latest technologies relevant to your field."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Patients are being encouraged to become proficient in helping themselves.

Physiotherapy

D'Antoni said players typically become proficient in the offense within two weeks.

The New York Times - Sports

The cop has to become proficient in tripping up bad guys with his cape.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The Heinrichses stayed for six and a half years, struggling to become proficient in the language.

The New Yorker

On completion, participants receive OSHA certification and become proficient in First Aid, CPR and lead abatement.

The New York Times

The law requires that all students become proficient in reading and math by 2014.

The New York Times

One exception is bilingual education programs that help Hispanic children rapidly become proficient in English.

The New York Times

We simply become proficient in the things that we make habitual.

The New York Times

Thus, Stanford trainees in Child Neurology are expected to become proficient in multiple arenas.

Stanford University

Students considering graduate work should become proficient in French or another modern language.

Yale University

Despite this, procedures conducted under 2D vision remain the standard of care, and trainees must become proficient in 2D laparoscopy.

Journal of Surgical Education

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "become proficient in", ensure that the specific area or skill you are referring to is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "become proficient", specify "become proficient in data analysis".

Common error

Avoid vague statements like "strive to become proficient" without specifying the area. This lacks clarity and reduces the impact of your statement. Instead, provide context: "strive to become proficient in Python programming".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "become proficient in" functions as a verb phrase complement, indicating the attainment of skill or expertise. As Ludwig AI confirms, this construction is grammatically correct and widely accepted. It is used to describe the process of gaining competence in a specific area.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

27%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "become proficient in" is a grammatically correct and widely used expression to describe the process of gaining expertise in a specific area. As Ludwig AI validates, it appears frequently in various contexts, especially in News & Media, Science, and Academia. When using this phrase, clarity is key; always specify the area of proficiency. Alternatives include "gain expertise in", "develop mastery of", and "become skilled at". Remember to use "become proficient in" with a well-defined subject to ensure effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

become skilled at

A simpler alternative focusing on general skill acquisition.

gain expertise in

Focuses more on the result of acquiring specialized knowledge or skill.

become adept at

Highlights natural ability and quickness in learning.

develop mastery of

Emphasizes a high level of skill and control.

master the art of

Implies a deep understanding and skill in a particular area, often with a creative or aesthetic element.

acquire competence in

Suggests gaining a basic level of skill sufficient for a particular task.

cultivate skill in

Highlights the gradual process of nurturing and refining a skill.

excel in

Implies surpassing others in ability or performance.

get the hang of

An informal way of saying one is learning to do something

familiarize oneself with

Focuses on learning the basics rather than reaching proficiency.

FAQs

What does it mean to "become proficient in" something?

To "become proficient in" something means to develop a high degree of competence and skill in a particular area, allowing you to perform tasks effectively and with expertise.

How can I use "become proficient in" in a sentence?

You can use "become proficient in" to describe the process of gaining expertise. For instance, "She studied diligently to "gain expertise in" data science".

What are some alternatives to "become proficient in"?

Alternatives include "become skilled at", "develop mastery of", or "acquire competence in", depending on the level of expertise you want to convey.

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

"Become proficient in" is generally used when referring to a subject or area of knowledge. "Become proficient at" is used when referring to a specific skill or activity. The choice depends on the context.