qualification

noun

qual·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌkwä-lə-fə-ˈkā-shən 

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

Synonyms of qualification

• capability
• expertise
• ability
• credentials
• stuff
• talent
• goods

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

Under the contract, COnovate will continue scaling US production while working toward commercial qualification of the material. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 16 Sep. 2026

Programs once reserved for the truly poor and disabled have steadily broadened their qualification criteria. — Editorial Board, Washington Post, 14 Sep. 2026

But for as much as Kirk was revered on the right, he was reviled on the left, facing pushback for comments disparaging immigrants and transgender people and questioning the qualifications and capabilities of women and Black Americans. — Elena Moore, NPR, 10 Sep. 2026

This year alone, five children from Ebony have gone on to the British Racing School, the National Stud and the National Horse Racing College to get their qualifications as a groom to work in the equine industry. — Danielle Rossingh, New York Times, 10 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1529, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing qualification

• paper qualification
• pre-qualification

Rhymes for qualification

• abbreviation
• abomination
• acceleration
• accentuation
• accommodation
• accreditation
• acculturation
• accumulation
• acetylation
• adjudication
• administration
• adulteration

Kids Definition

qualification

noun

qual·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌkwäl-ə-fə-ˈkā-shən 

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)