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

Whether this was due to incompetence or a deliberate effort to disenfranchise a voter, the overall impression is that ensuring voters can vote is no longer a priority. — Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 3 Nov. 2026

The pressure to deliver will be a lot more on Man United players, as defender Lisandro Martínez hit out at the club’s top management for their incompetence following a loss to Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League tie on Tuesday. — Jibin Joseph, PC Magazine, 18 Oct. 2026

Ah, the quaint days of 2004, when millions of people would crowd into theaters to watch a documentary about geopolitical incompetence. — Hershal Pandya, Vulture, 16 Oct. 2026

Treat mistakes as information rather than evidence of incompetence, and people might become more willing to try new things. — Vinesh Sukumaran, Forbes.com, 13 Oct. 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