general proficiency

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "general proficiency" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a broad level of skill or competence in a particular area or subject. Example: "The job requires candidates to demonstrate general proficiency in both written and spoken communication."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

It is a hellacious challenge, defending this Pistol formation, operated by this San Francisco team, with its speedy quarterback and its read-option tendencies and its general proficiency at scoring a lot of points and gaining a lot of yards.

The New York Times - Sports

However, both the GEPT and EPE are "general" proficiency exams.

Language Testing in Asia

Therefore, Criterion® holistic scores seem to be an indicator of L2 general proficiency or writing proficiency in L2 use settings.

Language Testing in Asia

Through three overarching main approaches of language testing theory: structural, functional, and general proficiency, applied linguists attempt to provide definition to language knowledge and use.

Language Testing in Asia

Also, since both exams are "general" proficiency exams, the strong correlation to the GEPT suggests that the EPE may have concurrent validity similar to that of the GEPT.

Language Testing in Asia

In addition, in the lower proficiency group, the scores of neither item type correlated significantly with general proficiency; in the higher proficiency group, however, the items with semantically related distractors, as opposed to those with unrelated distractors, correlated significantly with learners' general proficiency.

Asian-Pacific Journal of Second and Foreign Language Education

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

As for RQ2, the data suggest that there is a generally positive relationship between general English proficiency (at least, as measured by the QPT), the level of classroom participation observed, and L2 learners with PO or GAO learning style orientations.

Language Testing in Asia

The results showed the following in both speaker groups: (1) LexTALE was a good predictor of English vocabulary knowledge; 2) it also correlated substantially with a measure of general English proficiency; and 3) LexTALE was generally superior to self-ratings in its predictions.

Behavior Research Methods

In general, high proficiency females were more likely to employ [L] and less likely to employ [Z] than mid proficiency ones regardless of vowel contexts.

Lingua Sinica

The test was used in order to check the participants' general language proficiency level.

Asian-Pacific Journal of Second and Foreign Language Education

General English Proficiency Test (GEPT Advanced Writing Taskk 1 was used in this study.

Language Testing in Asia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure that when you use the term, it is clear what area or subject the proficiency relates to, to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "general proficiency" when the context requires a higher level of expertise. Using it inappropriately can misrepresent the actual skill level.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "general proficiency" functions as a noun phrase, where "general" is an adjective modifying the noun "proficiency". As seen in Ludwig, it usually describes the basic or non-specialized level of competence in a particular skill or field.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

6.25%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "general proficiency" is a commonly used phrase to denote a basic level of competence or skill. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and applicable in a wide range of contexts, from academic and scientific writing to news and media. Its formality is generally neutral to formal, and it is used to indicate a working knowledge without implying expertise. The authoritative sources cited by Ludwig highlight its usage in both professional and academic settings. While there are many alternative ways to phrase similar concepts like "overall competence" or "basic skill level", it is crucial to use "general proficiency" accurately to avoid overstating or misrepresenting an individual's skills. The phrase's versatility and clarity make it a valuable addition to professional communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

general competence

Similar to "general proficiency", but emphasizes competence.

overall competence

Emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the skill or ability.

basic skill level

Highlights the foundational aspect of the skill set.

fundamental aptitude

Focuses on the inherent ability or talent.

foundational competence

Emphasizes the underlying skills required.

broad capability

Highlights the extensive range of abilities.

overall skill

Highlights the comprehensive nature of skill or aptitude.

basic expertise

Focuses on a fundamental level of expert skill.

rudimentary skill

Indicates a basic, initial stage of skill development.

elementary ability

Stresses the initial or beginning level of skill.

FAQs

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

You can use "general proficiency" to describe a broad level of competence or skill in a particular area. For example: "The job requires candidates to demonstrate "general proficiency" in both written and spoken communication."

What are some alternatives to "general proficiency"?

You can use alternatives like "overall competence", "basic skill level", or "fundamental aptitude" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "general proficiency" in formal writing?

Yes, "general proficiency" is appropriate for formal writing when you want to describe a basic level of skill or competence that is not highly specialized.

What is the difference between "general proficiency" and "expertise"?

"General proficiency" implies a basic level of skill, while "expertise" suggests a high level of knowledge and skill in a specific area. Expertise is more specialized and advanced than general proficiency.