verbal proficiency

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "verbal proficiency" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's skill or ability in spoken language, often in contexts related to language learning or communication skills. Example: "Her verbal proficiency in Spanish allowed her to communicate effectively with native speakers during her travels."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

As I read, I pondered briefly why the writing quality was so abject, even in the cases of students who had hitherto proved their verbal proficiency.

The New York Times

They either have criminal charges against them, cannot pass the drug test or cannot pass the military qualifying test, which measures math and verbal proficiency.

The New York Times

The results are consistent with previous research that suggests individuals with an increased genetic propensity to bipolar disorder were more likely to show a range of creative abilities, especially in areas where verbal proficiency may prove advantageous, such as in literature or leadership roles.

The Guardian

Indeed, one of the authors is quoted as saying: "One possibility is that serious disorders of mood – such as bipolar disorder – are the price that human beings have had to pay for more adaptive traits such as intelligence, creativity and verbal proficiency".

The Guardian - Opinion

The city originally tried to enact similar rules earlier this year that would only apply to drivers from non-English speaking countries, and would require both written and verbal proficiency.

TechCrunch

Distinctions between SLI and other language impairments are important because developmental factors besides verbal proficiency may have been responsible for the observed links between language impairments and ADHD.

Clinical Linguistics and Phonetics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Sociologists have found that people who have stronger verbal proficiencies are known to be more generous charitable donors, and are more likely to agree to post-mortem organ donation (Bekkers 2005 b ).

Ageing and Society

An impressive 2014 meta-analysis by the RAND Corporation concluded that inmates who participated in academic and vocational programs exhibited a 43% decrease in recidivism, were more likely to find jobs, and scored higher on verbal and mathematic proficiency tests.

Huffington Post

Another major area of concern for international medical students is language issues, particularly as proficiency in verbal and non-verbal communication skills is of high importance in the medical degree.

BMC Medical Education

This consisted of two hours of computerized tests to measure quantitative, verbal, and spatial reasoning, proficiency in English and Excel, and personality type, and two hours of live, interactive sessions to measure soft skills.

IZA Journal of Labor Economics

Whilst there is debate as to the specific role of each pathway with respect to language functions (Friederici, 2009), some functional overlap seems likely with both pathways contributing to a high proficiency in verbal communication (Saur et al., 2008).

Brain

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's communication skills, specify the context in which "verbal proficiency" is important (e.g., "verbal proficiency" in negotiations or presentations).

Common error

Avoid using "verbal proficiency" as a catch-all term for all communication skills; it primarily refers to spoken language ability, not written or non-verbal aspects.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "verbal proficiency" functions as a noun phrase that describes a level of competence or skill in using spoken language. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English, indicating it's a valid way to express someone's ability in spoken communication.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "verbal proficiency" is a grammatically correct and usable term for describing skill in spoken language. Ludwig highlights its use across various contexts, including news, science, and business. It's important to note, as Ludwig suggests, that it primarily refers to spoken ability, not all forms of communication. While not exceedingly common, it's a valuable term for precise descriptions of language competence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

oral communication skills

Focuses specifically on the skills involved in speaking and communicating orally.

fluency in speech

Emphasizes the ease and smoothness of spoken language.

expressive language skills

Focuses on the ability to express thoughts and ideas effectively.

language competence

A broader term encompassing all aspects of language ability, not just verbal.

conversational ability

Specifically denotes the skill in engaging in conversations.

verbal aptitude

Highlights a natural talent or potential for verbal skills.

skill in articulation

Highlights the clarity and precision of spoken words.

command of language

Indicates a high level of control and mastery over language use.

linguistic ability

A general term for language skills; not specifically verbal.

eloquence

Suggests a refined and persuasive style of speaking.

FAQs

What does "verbal proficiency" mean?

"Verbal proficiency" refers to the skill and competence in using spoken language effectively, including articulation, fluency, and vocabulary.

How can I improve my "verbal proficiency"?

Improving "verbal proficiency" involves practicing speaking, expanding your vocabulary, and focusing on clear articulation. Consider engaging in conversations, presentations, and language learning exercises.

What are some skills related to "verbal proficiency"?

Related skills include "oral communication skills", "expressive language skills", and "conversational ability", all of which contribute to effective spoken communication.

Is "verbal proficiency" the same as "linguistic ability"?

While related, "verbal proficiency" specifically refers to spoken language skills, whereas "linguistic ability" is a broader term encompassing all aspects of language competence, including reading, writing, and listening.