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.

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

Roberto Rodríguez, 48, was one of the most proficient dancers.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2026

Only 43% of Chicago elementary and middle school students can read at grade level, and 27% were proficient in math on state tests in 2025.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 18, 2026

Though he has become rather proficient at slipping in at abnormal hours, sneaking out is a different matter.

From "The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern

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

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