proficient

Everyday

1. Good at something because of practice and training; skilled: She is a proficient swimmer. tree →
2. (formal, in reports) Having reached the expected level in a subject: «proficient in reading». tree →

In the lessons

Used in school reports and tests: «proficient», «advanced», «developing» are levels. In everyday life a proficient cyclist rides safely in traffic. In sport and music it shows practice paid off. Formal voice: «Candidates must be proficient in English». Phrases: «proficient in/at», «highly proficient», «become proficient».

Examples

• After a year of lessons, she became a proficient swimmer. tree →
• You must be proficient at maths to join the club. tree →
• He is proficient in three languages. tree →
• The report says I am proficient in reading. tree →
• A proficient cyclist always signals before turning. tree →
• It takes practice to become proficient at the piano. tree →
• She is highly proficient with a computer. tree →

Note

Adjective; noun: proficiency (a proficiency test). Usually «proficient in» a subject or «proficient at» an activity. Similar: skilled, capable, expert (stronger).