Incompetent Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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incompetent

[ɪnˈkɒmpɪt(ə)nt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

work performance

Not having or showing the necessary skills to do something successfully.

Synonyms

inadequate, inept, unskilled.

Examples of usage

  • He was fired for being incompetent at his job.
  • The manager was incompetent and unable to lead the team effectively.
Context #2 | Adjective

legal system

Not legally qualified or fit to perform a particular task.

Synonyms

incapable, unfit, unqualified.

Examples of usage

  • The lawyer was found incompetent to represent the defendant in court.
  • The judge declared the witness incompetent to testify due to mental incapacity.

Translations

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Origin of 'incompetent'

The word 'incompetent' originated from the Latin word 'incompetentem', which means 'not suitable'. It entered the English language in the early 17th century. The prefix 'in-' signifies 'not', and 'competent' comes from the Latin 'competentem', meaning 'suitable' or 'adequate'. Over time, 'incompetent' has evolved to describe someone lacking the necessary skills or qualifications for a task.


See also: competently, incompetence, incompetently.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,508 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.