What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
accomplished
Example
She is an accomplished musician who has performed in many prestigious venues. [accomplished: adjective]
Example
He accomplished his goal of climbing Mount Everest. [accomplished: verb]
proficient
Example
She is proficient in several languages, including French and Spanish. [proficient: adjective]
Example
He became proficient in playing the guitar after years of practice. [proficient: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Proficient is more commonly used than accomplished in everyday language. Proficient is a versatile word that can be used in a wide range of contexts, while accomplished is less common and tends to be used in more formal or professional settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between accomplished and proficient?
Accomplished is generally considered more formal and professional than proficient. It is often used in resumes, job applications, and other formal contexts to describe someone's achievements and qualifications.