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

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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 competence In contrast, a human can often pick up basic competence in a very short amount of time (and without massive energy use). — Tim Stevens, Ars Technica, 3 Mar. 2025 Bryant framed the issue as one requiring cultural competence and preventive measures in policing. — Delano Massey, Axios, 28 Feb. 2025 Every man and woman in this great country should have the opportunity to go as far as their hard work, individual initiative, and competence can take them. — Matthew Medsger, Boston Herald, 27 Feb. 2025 The level of cultural competence is contingent upon leadership because the leaders set the bar. — Julie Kratz, Forbes, 2 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for competence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for competence
  1. ability
  2. capacity
  3. capability
  4. competency
Noun
  • With fewer staff to handle the millions of applications submitted each year, students could face longer wait times to receive their aid packages, potentially jeopardizing their ability to enroll in college on time.
    — Scott White, Forbes, 13 Mar. 2025
  • The Supreme Court already handed Trump nearly absolute power over the Justice Department in a 2024 ruling regarding presidential immunity — including the ability to have conversations about criminal cases and other enforcement actions.
    — Carrie Johnson, NPR, 12 Mar. 2025
Definition of ability
Noun
  • Multiple customers have praised the bag’s capacity in their reviews.
    — Taylor Jean Stephan, People.com, 15 Mar. 2025
  • Poli-sci nerds will tell you that actual power lies at the point where will and capacity are synced up.
    — Philip Elliott, TIME, 14 Mar. 2025
Definition of capacity
Noun
  • There are three core capabilities that contribute to the ability to influence decision-making and change, empowering you to leverage this powerful skill in your professional journey: 1.
    — Heather V. MacArthur, Forbes, 21 Mar. 2025
  • But judging episodic memory capabilities is more difficult when there’s a pretty obvious communication barrier between adults and a bunch of babies.
    — Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 21 Mar. 2025
Definition of capability
Noun
  • Executives who develop their own AI competencies while strategically preparing their companies will maintain their competitive edge in the years to come.
    — Cynthia Pong, JD, Forbes, 16 Mar. 2025
  • After the doctor cleared her evaluations through the hospital's legal department, Williams took two competency evaluations, said Monterrosa.
    — Christina Dugan Ramirez, Fox News, 11 Mar. 2025
Definition of competency

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Cite this Entry

“Competence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/competence. Accessed 24 Mar. 2025.

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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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