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false proficiency

[/fɔːls prəˈfɪʃənsi/]
nounpl: false proficiencies
proficiência falsa
1. An apparent or superficial competence in a skill or language that is not supported by genuine understanding or ability
His false proficiency in Spanish was exposed when he couldn't understand native speakers.
Sua proficiência falsa em espanhol foi exposta quando ele não conseguiu compreender falantes nativos.
2. The state of appearing skilled while lacking actual mastery or depth of knowledge
The student's false proficiency in mathematics led to failure on the comprehensive exam.
A proficiência falsa do aluno em matemática resultou em fracasso no exame abrangente.
NYC Slang
fake flex on a skill; all talk, no game
Synonyms
illusory competencesuperficial skillapparent expertisefake masterypseudo-proficiency
Antonyms
true proficiencygenuine competencereal expertiseauthentic mastery

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
proficiência falsa
Standard usage in Brazilian Portuguese
Portugal
proficiência falsa
Standard usage in European Portuguese
General Brazilian
competência aparente
Alternative expression emphasizing apparent skill

Related Idioms & Phrases

talking the talk without walking the walk
a wolf in sheep's clothing
more bark than bite
appear more skilled than you are
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