competence

noun

ˈkäm-pə-tən(t)s How to pronounce competence (audio)
Definition of competencenext
as in ability
the physical or mental power to do something questioned his competence to finish the task without help

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of competence Your assumption of my competence, while gracious, would be terribly misguided. — Literary Hub, 6 July 2026 Watching younger professionals develop confidence and competence may be one of the most rewarding parts of this business. — Allen Buchanan, Oc Register, 4 July 2026 Youth sports can help children improve their sense of competence and confidence. — Megan Gandy, The Conversation, 1 July 2026 If loyalty and factionalism are valued over competence and an incapable person is appointed as a leader, the outcome is as predictable as fire. — Natasha Dye, PEOPLE, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for competence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for competence
  1. ability
  2. capacity
  3. capability
  4. competency
Noun
  • Derived from a Central African shrub, the drug's ability to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings were uncovered by accident, when Howard Lotsof, a 19-year old addicted to heroin, tried ibogaine out of curiosity in 1962.
    — Gavin Escott, USA Today, 6 July 2026
  • The Warriors will likely ask Lendeborg to defend multiple positions during the regular season, and those block were an encouraging sign of his ability to do just that.
    — Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 6 July 2026
Definition of ability
Noun
  • In June, Oceanside’s City Council voted unanimously to exempt multiple sites from the law and deferred others from high-density zoning until 2032, relying on carve-outs for areas with existing housing capacity, lack of walking paths and more.
    — Lucas Robinson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 July 2026
  • The event hit its 25,000 capacity earlier in the day, a first and last for the free festival.
    — Zuri Primos July 12, Kansas City Star, 12 July 2026
Definition of capacity
Noun
  • The Red Sox continue to find ways to win without Willson Contreras — who is serving a five-game suspension — and with a roster full of Triple-A and utility players filling roles and playing to their capabilities.
    — Jen McCaffrey, New York Times, 12 July 2026
  • Exact charge times are still a bit variable, with McMurtry citing anywhere from 20 to 60 minutes to go from 20% to 95%, depending on the ambient temperature and the capability of the charger.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 11 July 2026
Definition of capability
Noun
  • Key strategies include acquiring certifications and completing short courses to gain specific competencies quickly.
    — Sarah Hernholm, Forbes.com, 12 July 2026
  • The Michigan parents charged with murder and torture following the death of their morbidly obese 7-year-old son will be evaluated for their competency to stand trial.
    — Meredith Deliso, ABC News, 2 July 2026
Definition of competency

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competed
competence
competences
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Cite this Entry

“Competence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/competence. Accessed 16 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on competence

Nglish: Translation of competence for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about competence

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