Competent: meaning, definitions and examples

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competent

[ ˈkɒmpɪt(ə)nt ]

^{Context #1}

workplace skills

Having the necessary ability, knowledge, or skill to do something successfully.

Synonyms

capable, proficient, qualified, skilled

Examples of usage

She is a competent manager who always meets her deadlines.
You need to be competent in using computer software for this job.

^{Context #2}

legal term

Legally qualified or fit to perform an act.

Synonyms

fit, legally capable, qualified

Examples of usage

Only a competent adult can sign a contract.
The court found him competent to stand trial.

^{Context #3}

general usage

Acceptable and satisfactory, though not outstanding.

Synonyms

acceptable, adequate, satisfactory

Examples of usage

The food was competent but not exceptional.
His performance was competent, but lacked passion.

Translations

Translations of the word "competent" in other languages:

🇵🇹 competente

🇮🇳 सक्षम (Saksham)

🇩🇪 kompetent

🇮🇩 kompeten

🇺🇦 компетентний

🇵🇱 kompetentny

🇯🇵 有能な (Yūnōna)

🇫🇷 compétent

🇪🇸 competente

🇹🇷 yetkin

🇰🇷 유능한 (Yuneunghan)

🇸🇦 مؤهل (Mu'ahala)

🇨🇿 kompetentní

🇸🇰 kompetentný

🇨🇳 胜任的 (Shèngrèn de)

🇸🇮 kompetenten

🇮🇸 hæfur

🇰🇿 қабілетті

🇬🇪 კომპეტენტური (Kompetenturi)

🇦🇿 səlahiyyətli

🇲🇽 competente

Word origin

The word 'competent' comes from the Latin word 'competentem', meaning 'suitable, fit, proper'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century. Over time, the meaning has evolved to encompass a range of contexts, from legal qualifications to general abilities.