competency
Competency (noun) means the ability or skill needed to perform a particular task; near-identical to competence. Example: “Leadership is one of the core competencies the company looks for.”
How to use competency
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishBasically the same as competence, but often used specifically for a defined skill on a list.
In everyday writing, "competence" and "competency" are interchangeable, though "competency" is more common in HR and business jargon (e.g. "core competencies").
Word forms
competencies plural
Etymology
From Late Latin competentia, a doublet of competence.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for competency
Frequently asked questions
What does “competency” mean?
The word “competency” means the ability or skill needed to perform a particular task; near-identical to competence. In plain terms, basically the same as competence, but often used specifically for a defined skill on a list.
How do you pronounce “competency”?
“Competency” is pronounced KOM-puh-tuhn-see (/ˈkɑm.pə.tən.si/ in IPA).
How do you use “competency” in a sentence?
Here is “competency” used in a sentence: “Leadership is one of the core competencies the company looks for.”
What part of speech is “competency”?
“Competency” is a noun.
Where does the word “competency” come from?
The word “competency” comes from Late Latin. From Late Latin competentia, a doublet of competence.
Is “competency” a common word?
“Competency” is an uncommon word in modern English.