Proficient: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe someone who is very good at a specific activity or skill, usually after a lot of practice.

• She is proficient in multiple programming languages
• He became proficient after years of chess practice

Used for someone who has the expertise and training in a particular area, often involving manual or technical abilities.

• The skilled craftsman made a beautiful piece of furniture
• She is a highly skilled surgeon

Indicates someone who has the minimum required skills to do something satisfactorily, often implying reliability but not excellence.

• He is a competent driver
• She is competent in her job role

Describes someone who has the necessary skills and abilities to do something effectively, often used in a broad sense.

• She is capable of handling multiple projects at once
• He is capable of fixing almost anything in the house

Refers to someone who is highly skilled and quick in a particular activity, often suggesting a natural talent.

• She is adept at solving complex math problems
• He is adept in negotiating business deals

Use this word to describe someone who is very good at something, typically after considerable practice or study, but not necessarily at the highest level.

• She is proficient in several languages
• He became proficient at playing the guitar after years of practice

This word is suitable for describing someone who has a lot of information or understanding about a particular subject, especially in an educational or informative setting.

• He is very knowledgeable about ancient history
• The tour guide is knowledgeable about the local wildlife

This word is most appropriately used to refer to someone who has reached the highest level of skill and knowledge in a particular area. It often conveys a sense of authority and depth.

• She is an expert in cybersecurity
• The company consulted an expert to improve their financial strategies

This word is used to indicate someone who has gained much knowledge or skill from having done something for a long time. It is often used in professional or job-related contexts.

• He is an experienced engineer
• She is experienced in managing large projects

This word is used to describe someone who is very familiar with or skilled in something, often due to constant practice or study. It is typically used in formal contexts.

• She is well-versed in classical literature
• He is versed in several programming languages

Used to describe someone who is very good and skilled at something through practice and experience, but not necessarily an absolute expert.

• She is proficient in both French and Spanish.
• After years of training, he became proficient in playing the guitar.

Refers to someone who has a high level of knowledge or skill in a particular area, usually more than 'proficient'. Often carries a sense of formal recognition.

• He is a cybersecurity expert with over 20 years of experience.
• The company hired an expert to assess the environmental impact.

Used to describe someone who has achieved a very high level of skill in a particular area, often implying a combination of natural ability and extensive practice or study.

• Michaelangelo was a master of Renaissance art.
• She is a master chef known for her intricate recipes.

Refers to someone who is highly skilled and knowledgeable in a specific field, often narrower in focus than an 'expert'.

• She is a heart specialist at the local hospital.
• The company consulted a marketing specialist to improve their strategy.

Describes someone who is not only skilled in their field but also practices it as a paid occupation, often adhering to specific standards and ethics.

• He is a professional photographer who shoots weddings and events.
• As a professional athlete, she trains every day.