What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
expertise
Example
The company hired him for his expertise in software development. [expertise: noun]
Example
She has demonstrated her expertise in the field of medicine through years of research and practice. [expertise: noun]
proficiency
Example
He achieved proficiency in playing the guitar after years of practice. [proficiency: noun]
Example
She demonstrated her proficiency in Spanish by speaking fluently with native speakers. [proficiency: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Proficiency is more commonly used than expertise in everyday language. Proficiency is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while expertise is less common and refers to a specialized level of knowledge or experience.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between expertise and proficiency?
Expertise is typically associated with a formal and professional tone, while proficiency can be employed in both formal and informal contexts, allowing it to be used in a wider range of situations.
