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Qualification Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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qualification

[ˌkwɒl.ɪ.fɪˈkeɪ.ʃən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

education

A quality or accomplishment that makes someone suitable for a particular job or activity.

Synonyms

capabilities, credentials, skills.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
qualification

Used when referring to official requirements or achievements that certify someone's ability to perform a specific job or task.

  • He has the necessary qualifications to apply for the managerial position
  • What qualifications do you need to become a doctor?
credentials

Refers to documented proof of someone's qualifications or authority, often used in formal or official contexts.

  • She presented her credentials to the committee before the interview
  • His credentials include a degree in engineering and five years of experience
capabilities

Refers to someone's natural ability or potential to perform tasks or roles effectively, often implying a broader scope than specific qualifications.

  • The new software greatly enhances the company's capabilities
  • Her capabilities as a leader became apparent during the crisis
skills

Indicates practical abilities or expertise that someone has developed through experience or training.

  • She has excellent communication skills
  • The job requires strong analytical skills

Examples of usage

  • He has the necessary qualifications for the position.
  • She lacks the qualifications needed for this job.
Context #2 | Noun

academic

A pass of an examination or an official completion of a course, especially one conferring status as a recognized practitioner of a profession or activity.

Synonyms

accreditation, certification, diploma.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
qualification

Used to describe the abilities, experience, or education that someone needs for a specific job or activity.

  • She has the necessary qualifications for the managerial position.
  • He is studying to get his teaching qualification.
certification

Signifies that an individual or organization has met specific standards or passed exams to demonstrate competence in a certain field.

  • She received her yoga instructor certification last year.
  • The software development team has industry certification for their skills.
accreditation

Refers to the official approval or recognition of an institution or program meeting certain standards.

  • The university has received accreditation from the national education board.
  • Our hospital recently achieved accreditation for its high standards.
diploma

An official document awarded by an educational institution, usually after completing a course or program.

  • He obtained his high school diploma last summer.
  • She proudly displayed her university diploma on the wall.

Examples of usage

  • She obtained her teaching qualification last year.
  • His qualifications include a Master's degree in Economics.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Education

  • In many countries, a common qualification is a degree or diploma obtained through higher education.
  • Vocational qualifications focus on practical skills and are tailored for specific careers, like plumbing or cooking.

Career

  • Certain professions, such as medicine or law, require specific qualifications that are regulated by governing bodies.
  • Experience is often as important as formal education; internships and apprenticeships are valuable qualifying experiences.

Psychology

  • The term can also refer to cognitive qualifications, like emotional intelligence or problem-solving abilities crucial for leadership.
  • People often create mental 'qualifications' for themselves, which can influence their self-esteem and career choices.

Pop Culture

  • Reality TV shows often feature contestants who must 'qualify' through challenges to win a place in the competition.
  • Movies frequently explore themes of qualifications, such as characters overcoming obstacles to prove their worth.

Origin of 'qualification'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Latin 'qualificare', meaning to make a quality or to adapt.
  • It entered the English language in the late 14th century, often relating to the attributes needed for professions.

The word 'qualification' originated from the Latin word 'qualificatio' in the 16th century, which means 'to describe the attributes of something'. Over time, it evolved to represent the assessment of someone's abilities or eligibility for a specific role or task. Qualifications have become essential in modern society to demonstrate expertise, skills, and knowledge in various fields.

See also: disqualification, disqualify, qualifications, qualified, qualifier, qualifying, unqualified.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,864 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.