November 08, 2013 proficient (adjective) \pruh-FISH-unt\ Hear
it! What does it mean? : very good at doing something especially
through practice How do you use it? Laura knew it would take a
lot of practice to be a proficient musician, but she enjoyed her
flute lessons and could already play some short songs. Are you a
word wiz?  One of the following words is a synonym of
"proficient." Which word is it?  You're a proficient synonym
spotter if you picked D. If you are adept or proficient at
something you are skillful -- perhaps even an expert. "Adept,"
"proficient," "skillful," and "expert" are all synonyms, but
each has its own special personality. "Proficient" usually
describes pure ability that comes from training and practice ("a
proficient swimmer"). "Adept" suggests an innate ability as well
as a learned skill ("an adept sculptor"). "Skillful" suggests
being very able at a particular task ("a skillful surgeon").
"Expert" suggests having a thorough knowledge of a subject as
well as being very skillful at w