plural qualifications
1
a
: a special skill or type of experience or knowledge that makes someone suitable to do a particular job or activity
—usually plural
He has the best qualifications for the job.
She has the proper qualifications to teach.
academic/educational/technical qualifications
b
: something that is necessary in order for you to do, have, or be a part of something
—usually plural
What are the qualifications for owning a gun?
He met all the health qualifications for joining the army.
2
formal
: something that is added to a statement to limit or change its effect or meaning
I agree with the statement without qualification. [=I agree completely]
They will agree to the deal only with the qualification [=stipulation] that they get 40 percent of the profits.
3
British
: an official record or document (such as a degree, certificate, or diploma) which shows that you have completed a course of study or training and are qualified to do something
She is finishing up her qualification in marketing.
He is studying for his teaching qualification.
Students working towards their qualifications.
Her paper qualifications [=her qualifications on paper; her qualifications as shown by documents] make her a good candidate, but do you think she has the right personality for the job?
4
: the act of qualifying for something or the fact of having qualified for something
Your credit card will be sent to you by mail upon qualification. [=when you have qualified to receive it]
The team earned qualification for the tournament. [=the team qualified to play in the tournament]
Cite this Entry
“Qualification.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/qualification. Accessed 10 Apr. 2026.
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