Competence: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe someone's general ability to do something effectively, often in professional contexts.

• She has the competence required for the job.
• His competence in managing the team has led to great success.

A general term for someone's power or talent to do something, often used in a wide range of contexts.

• He has the ability to solve complex problems.
• Her artistic ability is truly impressive.

Indicates a specific learned ability to perform a task well, usually requiring training or experience.

• His cooking skills are exceptional.
• She has all the necessary skills for the position.

Refers to a high level of skill or expertise in a particular area, often gained through education or practice.

• He achieved proficiency in multiple languages.
• Her proficiency in mathematics is well recognized.

Describes someone's potential or capacity to achieve something, focusing more on the potential rather than the actual performance.

• The new software has enhanced our capability to handle data.
• She demonstrated great capability in the training exercises.

Refers to the ability or skill to do something successfully or efficiently. Often used in professional or technical contexts.

• Her competence in software development is truly impressive
• The doctor’s competence in handling complex surgeries is well-known

Pertains to the official power to make legal decisions and judgments. Often used in legal or governmental contexts.

• The case is outside of this court’s jurisdiction
• The police have jurisdiction over the entire city

Denotes the power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience. Often used in formal or organizational contexts.

• The manager has the authority to approve budget increases
• He spoke with an air of authority that convinced everyone in the room

Relates to the ability or right to control people or things. Can be used in various contexts including personal influence, political strength, and physical strength. It may have a negative connotation when referring to misuse or abuse of control.

• The president holds a significant amount of power
• They abused their power to exploit the workers

Refers to the maximum amount that something can contain or the ability to do something. Often used in terms of volume, space, or ability.

• The stadium has a seating capacity of 50,000 people
• She has the capacity to handle multiple tasks at once

Competence is best used to describe someone's ability to perform a job or task effectively. It's a general term that can be applied to various skills and knowledge.

• Her competence in managing complex projects is impressive.
• He was promoted due to his high level of competence in his field.

Emotional intelligence is used to describe someone's ability to understand and manage their own emotions and the emotions of others, especially in social or professional settings.

• Her high emotional intelligence makes her an excellent leader.
• Emotional intelligence is crucial when resolving conflicts within a team.

Social skills pertain to the abilities that facilitate interaction and communication with others. These are often seen in everyday social interactions and are important for building relationships.

• Good social skills are essential for networking events.
• Children often develop their social skills through play and interaction.

Interpersonal competence is used to highlight someone's ability to interact effectively with others in personal and professional relationships. It includes communication skills, empathy, and collaboration abilities.

• His interpersonal competence has improved the team's morale.
• Effective communication and teamwork are signs of strong interpersonal competence.