incompetence

noun

in·​com·​pe·​tence (ˌ)in-ˈkäm-pə-tən(t)s 

: the state or fact of being incompetent

Synonyms of incompetence

• inability

Examples of incompetence in a Sentence

Because of his incompetence, we won't make our deadline.

She was fired for gross incompetence.

Recent Examples on the Web

During Walker’s oral exams, Stoner exposes his incompetence. —Encyclopedia Britannica, 8 May 2026

Prosecutors emphasized that a finding of incompetence would not end the case but would instead trigger a process aimed at restoring Brown’s competency so proceedings can continue. —Stepheny Price, FOXNews.com, 7 May 2026

Fortunately, this doesn’t happen because, like Nia with Danny, Jamine helps Jesse through his incompetence by reminding him that there’s a whole house filled with rooms that can accommodate him and his girlfriend. —Ile-Ife Okantah, Vulture, 7 May 2026

Your partner weaponizes their incompetence. —Joy Harden Bradford, AJC.com, 7 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1663, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for incompetence

• competence

Kids Definition

incompetence

noun

in·​com·​pe·​tence (ˈ)in-ˈkäm-pət-ən(t)s 

: the quality, state, or fact of being incompetent

Medical Definition

incompetence

noun

in·​com·​pe·​tence (ˈ)in-ˈkäm-pət-ən(t)s 

1

: lack of legal qualification

2

: inability of an organ or part to perform its function adequately

incompetence of an aortic valve

Legal Definition

incompetence

noun

in·​com·​pe·​tence in-ˈkäm-pə-təns 

: the state or fact of being incompetent compare competency