How to say "proficiency" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 習熟しゅうじゅくnoun, suru verb, intransitive verbThe closest single equivalent for 'proficiency' as mastery of a skill or subject attained through learning and practice; it denotes the level of skill reached, as when assessing a learner's command of a language.
- 力りょくsuffixIn this reading 力 appears inside compound nouns, conveying proficiency or ability in some area; it does not stand alone, so you encounter it only as part of a compound.
- 熟練じゅくれんnoun, suru verb, intransitive verbCovers 'proficiency' as skill and expertise accumulated through long experience; it suits describing a practiced worker or craftsman, stressing seasoned skill rather than a level attained through study.
- 力ちからnounThe standalone word 力, whose central senses are strength and power; 'proficiency' here is really general ability or capability, so it is seldom the word you want for proficiency as mastery of a skill.
Use 習熟 for proficiency as mastery gained through learning or practice, 熟練 for skill honed by long experience, 力（りょく） for ability inside compounds, and 力（ちから） for strength or general ability, only loosely 'proficiency'.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
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