Definitions

competent

[kom-pi-tuhnt] / ˈkɒm pɪ tənt /

ADJECTIVE

able

Synonyms

STRONGEST

adequate capable decent efficient proficient qualified skilled

WEAK

adapted all around appropriate au fait being a pistol clever complete crisp dynamite endowed enough equal fireball fit fool good know ins and outs know one's business know one's stuff know the answers know the ropes know the score no slouch on the ball paid one's dues pertinent polished satisfactory savvy sufficient suitable there up to it up to snuff up to speed wicked

Antonyms

STRONGEST

impotent incapable incompetent inept insufficient unable unqualified unskilled unsuitable

WEAK

inadequate inefficient

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Unlike many developing countries, Pakistan boasts a competent diplomatic corps staffed by officers fluent in English.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 20, 2026

Above all, it would depend on competent leadership and prime ministers surviving long enough to implement what they promised the voters.

From BBC • May 16, 2026

"Everyone I met was highly competent and cared a great deal about doing the right thing," he wrote.

From Barron's • May 6, 2026

“Is he purging not just perfectly competent people, but highly competent people, the people you would want in your foxhole?” he asks.

From Salon • May 1, 2026

I told him I was not competent to answer.

From "Black Like Me" by John Howard Griffin

Vocabulary lists containing competent

"To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee, Chapters 26–31

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