Meaning
Proficient means having a high level of skill, ability, or competence in a particular subject, activity, or field. It describes someone who is capable and effective at doing something.
Grammar and Usage
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Part of speech: Adjective
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Usage:
- proficient in/at (something) → skilled in a subject or activity.
- Used to describe a person’s abilities, often in professional or academic contexts.
Patterns:
- "proficient in + noun"
- "proficient at + gerund (verb-ing)"
Example: "She is proficient in English." / "He is proficient at solving complex problems."
Common Phrases
- Proficient in English
- Proficient in computer programming
- Proficient at writing reports
- Proficient user
- Highly proficient
Collocations
- Verb + proficient: become proficient, make someone proficient
- Adverb + proficient: highly proficient, extremely proficient, fairly proficient
- Noun + proficient: language proficient, computer proficient
Examples
- She is proficient in three languages, including English, French, and Spanish.
- He became proficient at using design software after several months of practice.
- The company is looking for someone who is proficient in data analysis.
- Although still young, the student is already proficient at playing the violin.
- You need to be proficient in Microsoft Excel to apply for this job.
- After years of training, she is now proficient at handling difficult clients.
- Being proficient in communication skills is essential for leadership roles.
- He is quite proficient at cooking traditional Italian dishes.
Synonyms or Related
- Skilled
- Competent
- Capable
- Adept
- Expert
Antonym
- Inept
- Incompetent
- Unskilled
- Clumsy