as in inability
the lack of sufficient ability, power, or means
the astounding incompetence of the new assistant
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
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 incompetence
The ones who were around to see Walt Frazier and Willis Reed’s titles in 1970 and 1973 have stood by for more than half a century, along the way incurring the jeers that accompany telling anyone their favorite team is the go-to example of incompetence.
—
Fred Katz,
New York Times,
14 June 2026
Wardex's incompetence is another bugbear.
—
Ian Stokes,
Space.com,
12 June 2026
California’s slow counting process is not the result of incompetence or an unexpected surge in turnout.
—
Matt Klink,
Oc Register,
10 June 2026
Right now, Chicago is facing a blizzard of incompetence.
—
The Editorial Board,
Chicago Tribune,
6 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for incompetence
Fred Katz,
New York Times,
14 June 2026
Wardex's incompetence is another bugbear.
—
Ian Stokes,
Space.com,
12 June 2026
California’s slow counting process is not the result of incompetence or an unexpected surge in turnout.
—
Matt Klink,
Oc Register,
10 June 2026
Right now, Chicago is facing a blizzard of incompetence.
—
The Editorial Board,
Chicago Tribune,
6 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for incompetence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for incompetence
inability
Noun
-
This move follows a successful loan spell at Monaco and his inability to impress new coach Hansi Flick.
-
The ripple effect of food insecurity around the world from Ukraine’s inability to ship its normally massive grain crops.
Cite this Entry
“Incompetence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/incompetence. Accessed 6 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
