incompetence

/ˌɪnkəmpɪtəns/
nounIntermediate
formal

The state of being unqualified or unable to perform a task effectively due to lack of skill, knowledge, or ability.

The incompetence of the new employee led to multiple errors in the report.

The new employee's lack of skill caused several mistakes in the report.

The government's incompetence in handling the crisis worsened the situation.

The government's inability to manage the crisis effectively made things worse.

💡

Often used to describe a person or organization's failure to meet expected standards.

Collocations

gross incompetencea severe lack of ability or skillprofessional incompetencea lack of skill or knowledge in a professional contextincompetence in leadershipa lack of ability to lead effectively

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

incompetentadjective
lacking the necessary ability or skill

💡Pro Tip

Formal Usage

Use 'incompetence' in formal or professional settings to describe a lack of ability.

Gold Rule

Avoid Overuse

Avoid using 'incompetence' excessively, as it can sound harsh or judgmental.

📖Word Origin

From Latin 'incompetentia', meaning 'inability', from 'in-' (not) + 'competentia' (ability).

📝Usage Notes

The word is often used in formal or critical contexts to describe a failure to perform adequately.

Word Breakdown

in-
not
prefix
+
competence
ability or skill
root
English Dictionary