What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
knowledgably
Example
The professor spoke knowledgably about the history of art. [knowledgably: adverb]
Example
She answered the question knowledgably, demonstrating her expertise on the topic. [knowledgably: adverb]
proficiently
Example
He played the piano proficiently, impressing the audience with his skill. [proficiently: adverb]
Example
She completed the task proficiently, demonstrating her mastery of the technique. [proficiently: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Proficiently is more commonly used than knowledgably in everyday language. Proficiently is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while knowledgably is less common and is typically used in academic or intellectual settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between knowledgably and proficiently?
Knowledgably is generally considered more formal than proficiently. It is often used in academic or professional settings to describe someone's expertise or knowledge in a particular subject or field. Proficiently, on the other hand, can be used in both formal and informal contexts to describe someone's ability to perform a task or activity with skill and accuracy.