Introduction / Context:
This sentence-completion question focuses on choosing the correct noun to describe skill in a language. The learner must distinguish between several abstract nouns that look similar but have different meanings. In English, when we talk about someone becoming very skilled in a subject or language, the standard expression is “gaining proficiency in” that area.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Sentence: “Harish soon gained _________ in English.”
- Options: “provincialism”, “proficiency”, “efficiency”, “eminency”.
- We assume the intended meaning is that Harish became good or skilled at English.
Concept / Approach:
“Proficiency” means high level of skill or competence in a particular subject or activity. Therefore “proficiency in English” is a very common and correct phrase. “Provincialism” refers to narrow-mindedness or concern with only local matters. “Efficiency” refers to working well without wasting time or resources, usually used with processes or machines. “Eminency” (better “eminence”) means high rank or fame. Only “proficiency” fits the context of learning a language.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Understand the intended meaning: Harish has become skilled in English.
Step 2: Evaluate “provincialism”: relates to attitudes or narrow focus, not to language skill.
Step 3: Evaluate “proficiency”: means skill or competence, as in “proficiency in mathematics”, “proficiency in English”.
Step 4: Evaluate “efficiency”: refers to doing something with minimal waste; we do not normally say “efficiency in English” to mean language skill.
Step 5: Evaluate “eminency”: refers to high status or distinction, not directly to the ability to use a language.
Step 6: Conclude that “proficiency” is the only word that completes the sentence naturally and accurately.
Verification / Alternative check:
Insert “proficiency”: “Harish soon gained proficiency in English.” This clearly means he became good at English.
Try other options: “gained efficiency in English” sounds odd; “gained provincialism in English” or “gained eminency in English” are clearly wrong.
Hence “proficiency” is the correct choice.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A (provincialism): Refers to narrow outlook, not skill.
Option C (efficiency): Associated with processes or systems, not directly with language knowledge or skill.
Option D (eminency): Rarely used; “eminence” refers to fame or high rank and does not collocate with “in English” in this sense.
Common Pitfalls:
Candidates may confuse “efficiency” and “proficiency” because both relate to performance, but they are used in different collocations.
Some may be attracted by “eminency” thinking it simply means excellence, not realising it refers to status, not skill.
Lack of exposure to common exam phrases like “proficiency in English” makes this question harder for some learners.
Final Answer:
The correct word is “proficiency”, so the sentence reads: “Harish soon gained proficiency in English.”
Discussion & Comments