proficient
UK/prә'fiʃәnt/US
TOEFLGREC2
Definitions
adj.
Skilled and competent; able to do something well through training or practice.
精通的,熟练的。
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedpro- (forward) + fic (fac, 'make/do') + -ient = 'making progress, advanced.' Someone proficient has done the work to advance far in a skill. Note: usually followed by 'in' or 'at,' and applies to learned skills, not natural talent.
Root fac still carries 273 more wordsUsage Guide
- Followed by 'in' or 'at': proficient in French, proficient at coding.
- Implies competence through learning/practice — describes acquired skills (languages, software, instruments), not innate gifts.
Example Sentences
- 1.
She is proficient in three languages.
- 2.
You need to be proficient with spreadsheets for this job.