qualifies; qualified; qualifying
1
a
: to give (someone) the necessary skill or knowledge to do a particular job or activity
His experience qualifies him for the job.
The training will qualify you to sell insurance.
b
: to have the necessary skill or knowledge to do a particular job or activity : to have the qualifications to do something
They both qualify for the job.
2
: to pass an exam or complete a course of study that is required in order to do something
Lawyers may only work in the state in which they qualified. [=passed the exam]
—often + asHe has just qualified as a doctor/pilot.
3
a
: to have the right to do, have, or be a part of something
Did she qualify to receive financial aid?
Financial assistance is available for those who qualify.
—often + forTown residents qualify for a discount on the tickets.
To qualify for the contest, you must be at least 18 years old.
b
: to give (someone) the right to do, have, or be a part of something
The win qualifies her to compete in the final race.
The certification qualifies you to teach only in this state.
—often + forThe insurance plan qualifies you for an eye exam every two years.
Further education will qualify you for a pay raise.
4
: to have the skills that are required or do the things that are required to become a member of a team or to be allowed in a competition
Only those racers who qualify will continue to the next round.
She tried to get into the tournament, but she failed to qualify.
—often + forShe qualified for the Olympic team.
5
a
: to have all the necessary qualities to be thought of or described in a particular way
—+ as
Does this shirt qualify as business attire?
Living in a camper for a weekend does not qualify as outdoor camping.
A 10-3 victory qualifies as a blowout.
The book is too short to qualify as a novel.
b
: to give (someone or something) the right to be thought of or described in a particular way
—+ as
His brief time in the army doesn't qualify him as a military expert.
6
formal
: to make (a statement) more specific or limited in meaning or effect
I would like to qualify [=modify] what I said earlier to avoid any misinterpretation.
7
grammar
: to limit or describe the meaning of (a word or group of words) : modify
Adjectives qualify nouns.
Cite this Entry
“Qualify.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/qualify. Accessed 19 Jun. 2026.
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