build proficiency in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "build proficiency in" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the process of developing skills or expertise in a particular area or subject. Example: "Our program is designed to help students build proficiency in mathematics through hands-on learning and practice."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"To have questions answered live, in realtime will boost incentive to finish what you start, and actually build proficiency in a subject," says a student who participated in fashion designer Angela Kane's workshop on learning to sew t-shirts and jeans.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Baidu has built up an established proficiency in natural language processing.

TechCrunch

More importantly, schools must provide necessary remedial course programs to help the less proficient students to build their confidence in improving their English proficiency and at the same time in coping with the graduation benchmark requirement.

Language Testing in Asia

Olds logged 650 hours of flying time during training, including 250 hours in the P-38 Lightning, as the 479th built its proficiency as a combat group.

Wikipedia

But in the two years since, his replacement, Pat Gillick, has built a team stunning in its proficiency in all aspects.

The New York Times - Sports

The report, which emphasized the need for proficiency in foreign languages, said the legislature promised to build more classrooms and dormitories and to ensure that school buses run on time.

The New York Times

The test exercises were used to assess the trainees' speed and proficiency in the use of CAD by (1) measuring their performance time and (2) feature count (number of features-of-size used to build the test parts).

Computers & Education

Many jobs require proficiency in Irish.

The Economist

Determine your level of proficiency in English.

The New York Times

In the math portion, 61.9percentt achieved proficiency or advanced proficiency in the spring, compared with 59.7 the year before.

The New York Times

Proficiency in arranging Illusory Public Offerings (I.P.O.'s) required.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "build proficiency in", ensure the subject clearly indicates the area of skill development. For example: "build proficiency in data analysis."

Common error

Avoid overstating the level of skill attained. "Building proficiency" suggests progress, not necessarily mastery. Use it when describing ongoing development, not complete expertise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "build proficiency in" functions as a verb phrase that describes the process of acquiring or developing a skill or expertise in a particular area. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "build proficiency in" is a grammatically sound and usable expression that describes the process of acquiring skills or expertise. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and applicable in various contexts. It is commonly used in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business settings. While numerous alternative phrases exist, such as "develop expertise in" or "enhance skills in", each carries subtle nuances that may be more appropriate depending on the specific situation. When using "build proficiency in", ensure that the subject and scope are clearly defined. Overstating the level of skill or confusing it with mastery should be avoided.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

develop expertise in

Replaces "build proficiency" with "develop expertise", focusing on the outcome of skill development.

gain expertise in

Highlights the process of obtaining skills through experience and learning.

cultivate competence in

Emphasizes the nurturing and growth aspect of developing skills.

strengthen capabilities in

Highlights reinforcing existing skills or abilities in a specific domain.

acquire mastery of

Suggests a higher level of skill acquisition, implying a deep understanding.

improve command of

Emphasizes achieving better control and handling of a skill or subject.

enhance skills in

Focuses on improving existing skills rather than starting from scratch.

hone talent in

Suggests refining and perfecting a natural talent or skill.

foster aptitude in

Implies creating an environment conducive to developing natural abilities.

advance knowledge in

Focuses on increasing one's understanding and factual recall in a subject.

FAQs

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

You can use "build proficiency in" to describe the process of developing skills or expertise in a particular area. For example, "The course is designed to help students "build proficiency in" programming."

What are some alternatives to "build proficiency in"?

Alternatives include "develop expertise in", "gain competence in", or "enhance skills in", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "build proficiency in" or "develop proficiency in"?

Both "build proficiency in" and "develop proficiency in" are acceptable. "Build" implies constructing skills from the ground up, while "develop" suggests expanding existing skills.

Can "build proficiency in" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "build proficiency in" is suitable for formal writing, particularly in educational or professional contexts where skill development is being discussed. However, consider using more sophisticated synonyms like "cultivate expertise in" for enhanced formality.