qualification

noun

qual·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌkwä-lə-fə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce qualification (audio)
Synonyms of qualification
1
: a restriction in meaning or application : a limiting modification
this statement stands without qualification
2
a
obsolete : nature
b
archaic : characteristic
3
a
: a quality or skill that fits a person (as for an office)
the applicant with the best qualifications
b
: a condition or standard that must be complied with (as for the attainment of a privilege)
a qualification for membership

Synonyms of qualification

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Examples of qualification in a Sentence

She is finishing up her qualification in marketing. He is studying for his teaching qualification. Students working towards their qualifications.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But maybe looking and sounding like a working-class dude who hates big corporations is not adequate qualification for high office—or even proof that you can be taken at your word. — Jonathan Chait, The Atlantic, 6 July 2026 Not through luck or instinct but through a selection process that separated qualifications from disposition and valued both. — Ed Brzychcy, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026 Haaland was rested for Norway’s final group game against France, as wins over Senegal and Iraq had already secured qualification. — Ben Church, CNN Money, 5 July 2026 But the team’s first World Cup qualification in 52 years has inspired a wave of national pride and unity across the country and throughout its diaspora. — Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 5 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for qualification

Word History

First Known Use

1529, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of qualification was in 1529

Phrases Containing qualification

Rhymes for qualification

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Browse Nearby Words

qualifiable
qualification
qualificative
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Cite this Entry

“Qualification.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/qualification. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

qualification

noun
qual·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌkwäl-ə-fə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce qualification (audio)
1
: the act or an instance of qualifying
2
: the state of being qualified
3
a
: a special skill, knowledge, or ability that fits a person for a particular work or position
b
: a condition that must be met (as to gain a privilege)

More from Merriam-Webster on qualification

Nglish: Translation of qualification for Spanish Speakers

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