as in inability
the lack of sufficient ability, power, or means
the astounding incompetence of the new assistant
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of incompetence
The Golden Knights need not apologize for the bad luck and incompetence of others.
—
Troy Renck, Denver Post, 19 May 2026
Workers resisted him with false reports of incompetence, machine sabotage, and especially social pressure—something that worked on new recruits but not on Taylor himself.
—Literary Hub, 12 May 2026
During Walker’s oral exams, Stoner exposes his incompetence.
—Encyclopedia Britannica, 8 May 2026
Your partner weaponizes their incompetence.
—Joy Harden Bradford, AJC.com, 7 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for incompetence
Troy Renck, Denver Post, 19 May 2026
Workers resisted him with false reports of incompetence, machine sabotage, and especially social pressure—something that worked on new recruits but not on Taylor himself.
—Literary Hub, 12 May 2026
During Walker’s oral exams, Stoner exposes his incompetence.
—Encyclopedia Britannica, 8 May 2026
Your partner weaponizes their incompetence.
—Joy Harden Bradford, AJC.com, 7 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for incompetence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for incompetence
inability
Noun
-
While there are some drawbacks compared to traditional investments — such as its inability to earn dividends — there are several ways to add gold to your portfolio.—
Liz Knueven,
CNBC,
4 June 2026
-
Issues discussed by the candidates ranged from an inability to hire and retain deputies, department morale and poor conditions at the Men’s Central Jail.—
Steve Scauzillo,
Daily News,
4 June 2026
Cite this Entry
“Incompetence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/incompetence. Accessed 7 Jun. 2026.
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