Entry Word: qualify

Function: verb

Meaning: 1 to limit the meaning of (as a noun) <qualifying the noun “adventure” in the title of your story with a descriptive adjective would make it more attention-grabbing>

Synonyms modify, restrict

Related Words alter, distort, twist; narrow; compare, conjugate, decline, inflect

Near Antonyms broaden, expand, widen

2 to make competent (as by training, skill, or ability) for a particular office or function <raising five children has qualified her to be an advice columnist on parenting>

Synonyms equip, fit, prepare, ready, season

Related Words accustom, adapt, adjust, condition, groom, habituate, shape, tailor, train; authorize, entitle; empower, enable

3 to give a right to <this coupon qualifies the bearer for an extra 15% off the discounted price> — see entitle 1
4 to give official or legal power to <passing the state bar exam will qualify you to practice law> — see authorize 1