English proficiency vs english ability

Both 'English proficiency' and 'English ability' are correct phrases, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'English proficiency' is commonly used to refer to a person's level of skill or knowledge in English, especially in academic or professional settings. On the other hand, 'English ability' is more general and can refer to a person's overall capability in English, including speaking, listening, reading, and writing.

Last updated: March 31, 2024 • 532 views

English proficiency

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English, especially in academic or professional contexts.

This phrase is used to describe a person's level of skill or knowledge in English, often in relation to academic or professional requirements.

Examples:

She has a high level of English proficiency, which is essential for her job.
The university requires a certain level of English proficiency for admission.

Show examples from the web [+]

I've passed the English Proficiency Test level 2.
English proficiency is required.
Only a third grade proficiency at English.
As English is the main working language of Eurofound, proficiency in English is required to a level necessary for the performance of your duties.
Except where the related safety risk can be mitigated by other means, a pilot must have demonstrated proficiency in English, which must include:
She was not asked to sit any examinations nor demonstrate her proficiency in the English language.
The demonstration of language proficiency and of the use of English for IR holders shall be done through a method of assessment established by the competent authority.
During an initial phase, linguistic proficiency will be tested in the five most widely taught languages in the European Union (English, French, German, Spanish and Italian), but the Parliament wants to make sure further languages would be added at a subsequent stage.
Regarding language requirements, MEPs and Council have agreed on an operational language proficiency (level 4) for English, and for a local language where Member States consider it necessary for safety reasons.
And the dream, the hope, the vision, really, is that when they learn English this way, they learn it with the same proficiency as their mother tongue.
Regarding language requirements, MEPs and Council have agreed on an operational language proficiency (level 4) for English, and for a local language where Member States consider it necessary for safety reasons.
The Commission took the view that the indicator would be extremely valuable and would provide it with reliable information regarding the language proficiency levels of European citizens, in particular young people, in English, French, German, Spanish and Italian.
Regarding language requirements, MEPs and Council have agreed on an operational language proficiency (level 4) for English, and for a local language where Member States consider it necessary for safety reasons.
The Commission proposes that, at an initial phase, linguistic proficiency be tested in the five most widely taught languages in the European Union (English, French, German, Spanish and Italian), possibly adding in further languages at a subsequent stage.

Alternatives:

proficiency in English
English language proficiency
fluency in English
mastery of English
competence in English

english ability

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to refer to a person's overall capability in English.

This phrase is more general and can refer to a person's overall skill in English, including speaking, listening, reading, and writing.

Examples:

His English ability has improved significantly since he started taking classes.
The job requires a good level of English ability.

Alternatives:

ability in English
English language ability
skill in English
proficiency in English
competence in English

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English proficiency vs english ability