What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
competently
Example
She completed the project competently, meeting all the requirements. [competently: adverb]
Example
The new employee was able to perform the task competently after receiving training. [competently: adverb]
proficiently
Example
He played the guitar proficiently, impressing the audience with his skills. [proficiently: adverb]
Example
The chef cooked the meal proficiently, showcasing his culinary expertise. [proficiently: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Competently is more commonly used than proficiently in everyday language. Competently is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while proficiently is less common and more formal.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between competently and proficiently?
Proficiently is more formal than competently and is typically used in professional or academic settings. Competently is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
