Fluent: meaning, definitions and examples

When someone speaks a language easily and smoothly without making many mistakes.

• She is fluent in Spanish and can hold conversations with natives effortlessly.
• After living in France for a year, he became fluent in French.

When someone is able to express their thoughts and ideas clearly and effectively.

• The professor is very articulate, making complex subjects easy to understand.
• She is known to be articulate during meetings, always presenting her points persuasively.

When someone speaks or writes in a powerful, moving, and effective way, often with a rich use of language.

• The politician’s speech was so eloquent that it moved the audience to tears.
• He wrote an eloquent letter to the editor about the importance of environmental conservation.

When someone speaks in a polished, clear, and polite manner.

• The host of the event was very well-spoken, making all the guests feel welcome.
• He is known to be well-spoken, always using proper grammar and etiquette in conversations.

When someone has a skillful and competent level of ability in a field or activity, not necessarily related to speaking.

• She is proficient in using graphic design software.
• After years of practice, he became proficient at playing the guitar.

Used to describe someone who can speak or write a language easily and accurately. Also can describe smooth, easy movement or progress in some task.

• She is fluent in three languages
• His dance moves were fluent and captivating

Best used to describe something free from roughness or irregularities, and can also suggest ease in action, often related to surfaces, transitions, and operations.

• The table surface was smooth to the touch
• His presentation was smooth and well-received

Typically used to describe something done without any evident effort or difficulty. Suggests a natural, easy capability.

• His effortless jump over the fence amazed everyone
• She handled the task with effortless grace

Best suited for describing continuous, smooth movement or speech, often used for liquids or things that resemble liquids in movement, as well as for writing and speech that are easy and uninterrupted.

• Her hair was flowing in the wind
• The orator's speech was flowing and captivating

Describes something or someone that has elegance and beauty in movement or shape. Often used for physical movements, gestures, and even behavior or patterns.

• The ballerina performed a graceful pirouette
• His graceful manners made a positive impression