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.

In its legal filings, the county said the health regulations were adopted properly and supported by “substantial, competent, and material evidence.”

From Salon • Apr. 27, 2026

Unglamorous and competent are Becerra’s middle names, and they were on display at the debate — for better and mostly worse.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 23, 2026

X-Energy CEO J. Clay Sell also stands out as a competent leader, Gadomski added.

From Barron's • Apr. 21, 2026

Close observers say Rew's keeping is competent, rather than spectacular, possibly hampered by some heavy footwork.

From BBC • Apr. 20, 2026

Mrs. Fairfax turned out to be what she appeared, a placid-tempered, kind-natured woman, of competent education and average intelligence.

From "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Brontë

Vocabulary lists containing competent

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

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