more proficient with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "more proficient with" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a higher level of skill or expertise in relation to a specific subject or tool. Example: "After months of practice, I feel more proficient with using the new software."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

While an advanced degree may help you become more proficient with a skill, similar proficiency is possible by learning on the job.

Forbes

Learning to become more proficient with business analytics takes practice, practice and more practice.

Harvard Business Review

Dan has become far more proficient with his kitchen knives, and I've made Vietnamese summer rolls several times.

The New York Times

Though each played an instrument — growing more proficient with time — most of the instrumentals on their albums were supplied by studio musicians.

The New York Times

On Thursday, Epstein said the Red Sox must become more proficient with runners in scoring position (entering Thursday, a.241 average since the All-Star break) and get reliable outings from their starters.

The New York Times

Her claim to fame was that there was never a crossword puzzle she could not complete, miss a Jeopardy or other Quiz Program, where she was quicker and more proficient with responses than the contestants.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Children's EF was substantially related to the language, early literacy, and behavioral self-regulation measures as well as teacher ratings of inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity. For children with more proficient English, EF was associated with skills in both English and Spanish; however, for children with more proficient Spanish, EF was associated primarily with skills in Spanish.

Journal of Experimental Child Psychology

Defensive behaviors were proportionate to exposure level, and calves became more proficient at interfering with fly feeding over time.

The Professional Animal Scientist

More proficient bilinguals, compared with less proficient bilinguals, showed reduced amplitudes in both N400 and LPC when the integration depended on semantic and conceptual meanings.

Neuropsychologia

Mr. Malpass's career was, in a sense, an uncomplicated straight line, because he became more proficient and more inventive with the rugged techniques of forging and welding.

The New York Times

Systems with more proficient cultures and more engaged, more functional, and more stressful climates exhibited superior youth outcomes.

Child Abuse & Neglect

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "more proficient with", ensure the object of proficiency is clearly stated to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "He is more proficient", specify "He is "more proficient with" data analysis software".

Common error

Avoid using passive voice when describing how someone becomes "more proficient with" something. Instead of saying "The software was become "more proficient with" by the team", use the active voice: "The team became "more proficient with" the software".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "more proficient with" functions as an adjective phrase that modifies a noun, indicating a comparative level of skill or expertise in relation to something. This is supported by Ludwig AI which classifies it as correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "more proficient with" is a grammatically correct and commonly used way to describe an increased level of skill or expertise. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is suitable for a variety of contexts, ranging from News & Media to Science. When using this phrase, ensure that the object of proficiency is clearly stated and avoid overuse of passive voice. Alternatives such as "more skilled at" or "more adept at" can be used to add variety to your writing, but the best choice will depend on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more skilled at

Focuses on skill level rather than expertise in using something specific.

more adept at

Emphasizes natural ability or talent in a particular area.

more experienced with

Highlights the role of experience in gaining expertise.

better acquainted with

Suggests a deeper familiarity and understanding.

more competent in

Focuses on having the necessary abilities or qualities.

more accomplished in

Emphasizes a high level of achievement and skill.

more versed in

Suggests a thorough knowledge and understanding.

more masterful at

Highlights exceptional skill and control.

more expert in

Focuses on a high level of specialized knowledge.

more familiar with

Suggests a comfortable and practical understanding.

FAQs

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

You can use "more proficient with" to describe an increase in skill or expertise. For example, "After taking the course, she became "more proficient with" the new software."

What are some alternatives to "more proficient with"?

Alternatives include "more skilled at", "more adept at", or "more experienced with", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "more proficient in" instead of "more proficient with"?

While "more proficient with" is commonly used, "more proficient in" is also correct, especially when referring to a skill or area of expertise rather than a specific tool. Both are acceptable, but the choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean to be "more proficient with" something?

To be "more proficient with" something means you have gained a higher level of skill, experience, or expertise in using or understanding that thing. It implies improved ability and competence.