develop proficiency in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "develop proficiency in" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the process of gaining skills or expertise in a particular area or subject. Example: "To succeed in this field, it is essential to develop proficiency in data analysis and interpretation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

The goal of the chancellor's proposed modifications, school officials said, is to develop proficiency in English in three years.

The New York Times

The state does not have a foreign-language requirement but students here must develop proficiency in at least one language.

The New York Times

At one time conservatories expected instrumentalists to develop proficiency in a secondary instrument, though most institutions seem to have dropped this requirement.

The New York Times - Arts

Access to vocational schools that help them develop proficiency in a trade would give them another option and actually make them more competitive in the workplace.

Forbes

"Rather, these persons could live legally and without fear in the U.S., but only if they were willing to admit their culpability, pass rigorous background checks, pay significant fines and back taxes, develop proficiency in English and American civics, and be able to support themselves and their families," the statement says.

BBC

He even thanked us for insisting that he practice speaking Standard English grammar and develop proficiency in a foreign language.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Once we have ensured that all our children have developed proficiency in their own language, we could think about teaching them another one.

The Guardian

In a nutshell, the book is easy to follow and well-organized for developing proficiency in random graph models necessary for state of the art research.

Complex Adaptive Systems Modeling

This is important for research conducted across a range of educational contexts and is even more crucial for research with students who are developing proficiency in classroom-sanctioned languages.

Video Journal of Education and Pedagogy

Getting a formal education, especially at a young age, is necessary, but not sufficient for developing proficiency in the areas of numeracy, problem solving with technology, and literacy.

Huffington Post

Universities and colleges do not have specific pre-law degree programs, but students should pursue a major that develops proficiency in research, communication and analysis.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to improve in a specific area, use "develop proficiency in" to emphasize the active process of skill enhancement.

Common error

Instead of saying "I want to develop proficiency", specify the area. For example, say "I want to "develop proficiency in" data analysis" for a clearer objective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "develop proficiency in" functions as a verb phrase indicating the process of gaining competence or expertise in a specific area. It is commonly used to describe learning objectives, training programs, and personal development goals. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "develop proficiency in" is a grammatically sound and professionally versatile way to express the process of acquiring expertise, though less common than alternatives, it is applicable in many contexts. Ludwig AI analysis confirms the phrase's validity, indicating it’s suitable for describing learning objectives, skill enhancement, and training program outcomes. It is commonly used in neutral and professional settings. For clarity and precision, always specify the area in which proficiency is being developed. Consider alternatives such as "gain competence in" or "hone skills in" for nuanced expressions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gain competence in

Indicates the attainment of basic competence or ability.

cultivate expertise in

Emphasizes the gradual and deliberate process of acquiring expertise.

build expertise in

Focuses on the gradual construction of expertise over time.

acquire mastery of

Highlights the achievement of a high level of skill and control.

improve skills in

Refers to a general enhancement of skills rather than reaching a specific level.

hone skills in

Focuses on refining existing skills to a greater degree of sharpness.

advance skills in

Implies moving to a higher level of skill and knowledge.

become adept at

Highlights a natural talent or quick learning ability.

master the art of

Implies a deeper understanding and skillful application, often in creative fields.

excel in

Suggests surpassing others in terms of skill and performance.

FAQs

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

You can use "develop proficiency in" to describe the process of gaining expertise in a specific area. For example, "The program helps students to "develop proficiency in" a foreign language".

What are some alternatives to "develop proficiency in"?

Some alternatives include "gain competence in", "acquire mastery of", or "hone skills in", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

While both are understandable, "develop proficiency in" is generally preferred and more common when referring to a subject or skill area. "Develop proficiency at" is less frequently used.

What's the difference between "develop proficiency in" and "improve skills in"?

"Develop proficiency in" implies a more comprehensive and structured approach to gaining expertise, while "improve skills in" suggests a general enhancement of existing skills without necessarily reaching a defined level of expertise.