competent
6 synonyms and 1 antonym for competent, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Having enough skill, knowledge, or ability to do something properly.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Antonyms
How to use competent
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
competent authority
perfectly competent
competent professional
Etymology
From Latin competens, present participle of competere, "to be fit or capable."
Full origin of competent →Frequently asked questions
What does “competent” mean?
The word “competent” means having enough skill, knowledge, or ability to do something properly. In plain terms, good enough at a job or task to be trusted with it.
How do you pronounce “competent”?
“Competent” is pronounced KOM-puh-tuhnt (/ˈkɒmpətənt/ in IPA).
How do you use “competent” in a sentence?
Here is “competent” used in a sentence: “She's a competent surgeon with years of experience.”
What is the opposite of “competent”?
The opposite of “competent” — its antonyms — is incompetent.
What part of speech is “competent”?
“Competent” is an adjective.
Where does the word “competent” come from?
The word “competent” comes from Latin. From Latin competens, present participle of competere, "to be fit or capable.".
Is “competent” a common word?
“Competent” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “competent” have?
“Competent” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: having enough skill, knowledge, or ability to do something properly.
What is the difference between 'competent' and 'proficient'?
Competent means having enough skill to do something properly, meeting the required standard. Proficient suggests a higher level, describing someone who is well practised and highly skilled.
Does 'competent' mean excellent?
No. Competent describes someone who is adequately skilled and able to do a job properly, not someone who is outstanding. It signals meeting a standard rather than exceeding it.
What is the difference between 'competent' and 'capable'?
The two overlap, but capable often stresses the potential or capacity to do something, while competent stresses proven, adequate skill. A person can be capable of learning a task before they are competent at it.
