Levels

Beginner- somewhat proficient

Intermediate- understands fundamentals

Advanced- A master of the skill

Sword levels

Beginner- The sword and the swordsman simply exist physically, with their will being no part of the equation (Zoro at introduction)

Intermediate- A sword follows will," where a swordsman can make a sword become an extension of his own will (Zoro upon defeating Mr. 1)

Advanced-The sword develops its own will, one strong enough to contend with its owners and others, becoming a Black Blade at the absolute height of this power (This is where Mihawk is)

Peak- The Swordsman conquers the unruly will of a sword, deriving more power the more powerful the sword's will (Like Sword Intent in xianxia/wuxia

Sword grades-

There are four known grades; Grade, Skillful Grade, Great Grade, and Supreme Grade. Swords with a known grade exhibit cutting power and resilience that far outclass other weapons, and may be worth millions of Bellies. By definition, every graded sword is a meito.