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.

In the 2007-08 school year — the final year under district operation — about 12% of students tested as proficient in English Language Arts, and about 3% in math.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 11, 2026

Only a third of Philadelphia students were proficient in English, and a quarter in math, on state tests last year.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 13, 2026

Lowery makes proficient use of the confined setting where Sam and Mary reunite, building a two-hander chamber drama around Coel and Hathaway’s fervent commitment to the weird and inane.

From Salon • Apr. 24, 2026

The fire brigade, for example, "were really most proficient in the city at that time".

From BBC • Apr. 14, 2026

As she became more proficient in the work, so she became better at taking orders and following procedures and ceasing to think for herself.

From "Atonement" by Ian McEwan

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!