qualification

noun

qual·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌkwä-lə-fə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce qualification (audio)
1
: a restriction in meaning or application : a limiting modification
this statement stands without qualification
2
a
obsolete : nature
b
archaic : characteristic
3
a
: a quality or skill that fits a person (as for an office)
the applicant with the best qualifications
b
: a condition or standard that must be complied with (as for the attainment of a privilege)
a qualification for membership

Examples of qualification in a Sentence

She is finishing up her qualification in marketing. He is studying for his teaching qualification. Students working towards their qualifications.
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.
Morrison has already started his coaching qualifications. Daniel Taylor, New York Times, 6 June 2025 Scoring 24 goals and providing four assists as Osasuna finished ninth and only just missed out on European qualification to Rayo Vallecano, Budimir turns 34 on July 22 and can be picked up for a cut fee. Tom Sanderson, Forbes.com, 5 June 2025 Venezuela currently sits five points off automatic qualification but could secure a place through a playoff. Amir Daftari, MSNBC Newsweek, 5 June 2025 What about extra fees Too many management companies compete solely on price as opposed to service, qualifications, and reputation, and too often the base fee is over-emphasized. Kelly G. Richardson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 3 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for qualification

Word History

First Known Use

1538, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of qualification was in 1538

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Qualification.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/qualification. Accessed 9 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

qualification

noun
qual·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌkwäl-ə-fə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce qualification (audio)
1
: the act or an instance of qualifying
2
: the state of being qualified
3
a
: a special skill, knowledge, or ability that fits a person for a particular work or position
b
: a condition that must be met (as to gain a privilege)

More from Merriam-Webster on qualification

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