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competence
/ˈkɒmpɪtəns/
ability to do something well
Her competence in data analysis earned her a promotion.
She was promoted because she is skilled at analyzing data.
general
The ability to do something well or effectively
The team's competence in project management ensured the project's success.
Their skill in managing projects led to the project's success.
His competence in public speaking made him a great leader.
He was an effective leader because he was skilled at speaking in public.
Often used in professional or formal contexts to describe skill or expertise.
Collocations
demonstrate competenceshow skill or abilitylack of competenceinability to perform welltechnical competenceskill in a specific technical area
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Formal vs. Informal Use
Use 'competence' in formal or professional contexts. In informal settings, 'skill' or 'ability' may be more natural.
Gold Rule
Avoid Redundancy
Do not use 'competence' with words like 'ability' or 'skill' in the same sentence, as they are similar in meaning.
Word Origin
From Old French 'compétence' (ability to compete), from Latin 'competentia' (agreement, suitability), from 'competere' (to come together, be suitable).
Usage Notes
Can be used to describe both general abilities and specific skills. Often used in professional or formal contexts.
Word Breakdown
compet
to come together, compete
root-ence
state or quality of
suffixEnglish Dictionary