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Definitions

incompetence

[in-kom-pi-tuhns] / ɪnˈkɒm pɪ təns /
NOUN
lack of ability
Synonyms


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.

He also accused DOJ lawyers of destroying the office’s good standing with the judiciary and suggested that its incompetence has allowed defendants to evade just penalties for heinous crimes.

From Slate • Mar. 20, 2026

The mistakes you make at 20 are interpreted as experimentation rather than incompetence.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 18, 2026

Unlike James Bond, however, Deighton's secret agents were ordinary working-class people, often frustrated by the incompetence of their own side.

From BBC • Mar. 17, 2026

Her gleeful cruelty was matched only by the audacity of her incompetence.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 6, 2026

Not clumsy, not feigning false incompetence, but with perfect, practiced skill.

From "Scythe" by Neal Shusterman