competence

noun

ˈkäm-pə-tən(t)s How to pronounce competence (audio)
Definition of competencenext
as in ability
the physical or mental power to do something questioned his competence to finish the task without help

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of competence Singhal restricted the questioning to the nurse’s lack of competence. — Jay Weaver, Miami Herald, 16 June 2026 Being near leaders grants informal access, fostering familiarity and trust, which can be mistaken for competence. — Benjamin Laker, Forbes.com, 29 June 2026 Healthy motivation comes from creating an environment where young athletes feel a sense of autonomy, competence and connection with their teammates, according to Dorsch. — ABC News, 25 June 2026 Should errors be discovered after certification, the authors could be subject to discipline under the bar’s code of conduct, which establishes standards for competence and professionalism. — Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for competence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for competence
  1. ability
  2. capacity
  3. capability
  4. competency
Noun
  • Derived from a Central African shrub, the drug's ability to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings were uncovered by accident, when Howard Lotsof, a 19-year old addicted to heroin, tried ibogaine out of curiosity in 1962.
    — Gavin Escott, USA Today, 6 July 2026
  • The Warriors will likely ask Lendeborg to defend multiple positions during the regular season, and those block were an encouraging sign of his ability to do just that.
    — Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 6 July 2026
Definition of ability
Noun
  • Since the stadium was adjusted, reducing the capacity, raising prices and adding suites, the atmosphere has become a little less intimidating.
    — Adam Crafton, New York Times, 4 July 2026
  • State leaders pointed to existing defense assets, manufacturing capacity, and workforce as key factors in attracting the company.
    — Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 4 July 2026
Definition of capacity
Noun
  • Apple Intelligence and Siri AI capabilities will require specific hardware, effectively compelling users with older devices to upgrade for the full experience.
    — Ewan Spence, Forbes.com, 4 July 2026
  • National plans envisage developing the capability to design, build and eventually export indigenous submarines during the 2040s.
    — Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 4 July 2026
Definition of capability
Noun
  • The Michigan parents charged with murder and torture following the death of their morbidly obese 7-year-old son will be evaluated for their competency to stand trial.
    — Meredith Deliso, ABC News, 2 July 2026
  • The reduced hiring and investment further deepens the knowledge and competency deficits within organizations.
    — Ipsita Mohanty, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026
Definition of competency

Browse Nearby Words

competed
competence
competences
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Cite this Entry

“Competence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/competence. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on competence

Nglish: Translation of competence for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about competence

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