unqualified

adjective

un·​qual·​i·​fied ˌən-ˈkwä-lə-ˌfīd How to pronounce unqualified (audio)
Synonyms of unqualifiednext
1
: not fit : not having requisite qualifications
unqualified job candidates
2
: not modified or restricted by reservations : complete
an unqualified denial
unqualifiedly
ˌən-ˈkwä-lə-ˌfī(-ə)d-lē How to pronounce unqualified (audio)
adverb

Synonyms of unqualified

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Examples of unqualified in a Sentence

He is clearly unqualified for the job. It's a judgment that you are unqualified to make. You have my unqualified support.
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.
That does not mean every sleep coach is unqualified. — Emily Cegielski, Flow Space, 4 June 2026 The risk isn't just that an unqualified candidate advances. — Casey Marquette, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026 There have been three heads of state since October of last year, each uniquely unqualified to lead a nation. — Daniel Alarcón, New Yorker, 4 June 2026 Pelley called Bilton unwelcome and unqualified. — David Folkenflik, NPR, 3 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for unqualified

Word History

First Known Use

1556, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of unqualified was in 1556

Rhymes for unqualified

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Browse Nearby Words

unqualifiable
unqualified
unqualify
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unqualified.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unqualified. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

unqualified

adjective
un·​qual·​i·​fied ˌən-ˈkwäl-ə-ˌfīd How to pronounce unqualified (audio)
ˈən-
1
: not fit : not having required qualifications
unqualified for the job
2
: not having any exceptions : absolute
an unqualified denial
unqualifiedly
-ˌfī(-ə)d-lē How to pronounce unqualified (audio)
adverb

Legal Definition

unqualified

adjective
un·​qual·​i·​fied ˌən-ˈkwä-lə-ˌfīd How to pronounce unqualified (audio)
: not qualified

More from Merriam-Webster on unqualified

Nglish: Translation of unqualified for Spanish Speakers

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