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Meaning of Word

Competent refers to having the necessary ability, knowledge, or skills to do something successfully or efficiently.

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. Having the required qualities or abilities to perform a task or role effectively.
2. Sufficiently good or acceptable in a particular skill or field.
3. Meeting the necessary standards or requirements for a task or job.

History and Origin

The word competent originates from the Latin competens, meaning “suitable, proper, or adequate,” derived from competere (“to meet, be suitable”). Competere combines com- (“together”) and petere (“to seek”), reflecting the idea of meeting the necessary requirements. The word entered English in the 15th century and has maintained its meaning of suitability or adequacy in various contexts, especially in relation to professional or academic ability.

Detailed Explanation

Being competent means having the right skills or qualifications to handle a task or responsibility. Competence can be assessed in different areas, such as professional expertise, social skills, or intellectual ability. A competent person is expected to perform tasks effectively and meet established standards, but competence does not necessarily mean excellence. It implies meeting the minimum requirements or expectations. For example, a competent doctor is skilled enough to provide adequate care, even if not the most highly skilled in their field.

Example Sentences

1. She is a competent manager who consistently meets deadlines and expectations.
2. The engineer was considered competent, but her work lacked innovation.
3. He demonstrated competent knowledge of the subject during the interview.
4. The teacher felt that the students were competent enough to handle the final exam.
5. A competent mechanic can diagnose and fix most car issues.
6. The software was easy to use for anyone with competent computer skills.
7. His competent handling of the crisis earned him praise from his superiors.
8. The chef is competent, though not yet at the level of a Michelin-starred cook.
9. She proved herself to be competent in both the theory and practice of the subject.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Skilled: Having the ability or expertise in a specific area.
2. Proficient: Highly skilled and knowledgeable in a particular field.
3. Capable: Having the capacity to perform a task or meet expectations.
4. Qualified: Having the necessary education, skills, or experience for a task.
5. Adequate: Sufficient or acceptable in meeting requirements.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Expert: Someone who has advanced skills and knowledge in a particular area.
2. Efficient: Performing tasks in an optimal and productive manner.
3. Experienced: Having gained skills or knowledge over time.
4. Knowledgeable: Well-informed and aware of relevant facts or concepts.
5. Talented: Naturally skilled or gifted in a particular area.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Competency: The ability to perform tasks to an accepted standard.
2. Competent authority: The recognized or authorized body responsible for making decisions in a given area.
3. Competence test: An assessment to determine if someone has the necessary skills or abilities for a task.
4. Competency-based: A method of assessment or education focused on proving the possession of specific skills.
5. Under-competent: Lacking the necessary skills or qualifications to perform effectively.

Antonyms

1. Incompetent: Lacking the ability or skills to perform a task effectively.
2. Unskilled: Lacking proficiency or ability in a particular area.
3. Inept: Lacking skill or ability, often in a way that results in failure.
4. Unqualified: Lacking the necessary education, experience, or skills for a job or task.
5. Inefficient: Failing to achieve the desired results with minimal effort or waste.