incompetency

noun

(ˌ)in-ˈkäm-pə-tən(t)-sē How to pronounce incompetency (audio)
Definition of incompetencynext
as in inability
the lack of sufficient ability, power, or means the incompetency of the secretary was revealed only after she had left the company, and her successor discovered years of filing left undone

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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 incompetency The reproduction of systemic racism occurs not simply through white denial but also through the promotion of cultural incompetency. — Literary Hub, 16 Mar. 2026 Maybe that data suggests incompetency in the sporting director role. — Ian Nicholas Quillen, Forbes.com, 17 Sep. 2025 The National Geographic series dives into footage and narratives from officials leading the disaster response at the time, revealing incompetencies and false information from the media that cost locals their lives. — Sam Gillette, People.com, 30 Aug. 2025 Portalatin’s petition seeks to remove Wilder and Saenz using a statute in the Texas Local Government Code that allows for citizens to seek public officials’ removal due to incompetency, official misconduct or drunkenness both on and off duty. — Cody Copeland, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 5 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for incompetency
Recent Examples of Synonyms for incompetency
  1. inability
  2. incompetence
Noun
  • The real failure here is on the part of the adults involved — their inability to resolve conflict, manage bruised egos and find a way to nurture an extraordinary talent.
    — Omar Kelly, Miami Herald, 27 Oct. 2026
  • His teachers attributed the problem to his inability to stay focused while using an iPad throughout the day, Byock said.
    — Dalia Faheid, CNN Money, 26 Oct. 2026
Definition of inability
Noun
  • The pressure to deliver will be a lot more on Man United players, as defender Lisandro Martínez hit out at the club’s top management for their incompetence following a loss to Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League tie on Tuesday.
    — Jibin Joseph, PC Magazine, 18 Oct. 2026
  • Ah, the quaint days of 2004, when millions of people would crowd into theaters to watch a documentary about geopolitical incompetence.
    — Hershal Pandya, Vulture, 16 Oct. 2026
Definition of incompetence

Browse Nearby Words

incompetence
incompetency
incompetent
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Cite this Entry

“Incompetency.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/incompetency. Accessed 28 Oct. 2026.

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