Definitions

proficient

[pruh-fish-uhnt] / prəˈfɪʃ ənt /

ADJECTIVE

able, skilled

Synonyms

STRONGEST

accomplished adept apt capable competent conversant efficient experienced gifted qualified skillful talented trained versed

WEAK

clever consummate crack crackerjack drilled effective effectual exercised expert finished on the beam phenom pro savvy sharp slick up to speed whiz with it

Antonyms

STRONGEST

green ignorant immature impotent incapable incompetent inefficient inept inexperienced unable unskilled unskillful untalented

WEAK

clumsy

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Proficient at passing and dribbling with both feet while being a strong carrier of the ball, Guehi is able to get his teams up the pitch when not immediately pressed.

From BBC • Jan. 19, 2026

Another set of labels is also up for consideration: While Advanced and Proficient remain unchanged, the proposed names for the two lower-scoring categories are Basic and Below Basic.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 4, 2025

Proficient report writers in all academic disciplines and professions use language that is clear, direct, economical, and conventional.

From Textbooks • Dec. 21, 2021

Proficient on piano and guitar, at 15 he began playing on recording sessions and accompanied artists such as Art Neville, Toussaint and Joe Tex.

From The Guardian • Jun. 7, 2019

MORAL: Those having the most Time to devote to a Line of Endeavor usually become the most Proficient.

From Ade's Fables by Ade, George

Vocabulary lists containing proficient

Grade 9, List 1

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Essential Academic Vocabulary for High School Students, List 4

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ACT Vocabulary List

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!