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.

A: "One thing Brazil has done very well is that financial regulation has been surprisingly consistent across administrations. Competent players in the financial industry have made money in Brazil."

From Barron's • Mar. 11, 2026

Competent teams with heart and want-to, like the Denver Nuggets, who are next on the docket Thursday.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 5, 2026

Competent lawyers absolutely would not put him on the stand anyway — the man is emotionally incontinent and too proud of his crimes to avoid confessing.

From Salon • Nov. 16, 2023

"Competent government" and "competent leadership" were, she said, key to achieving these aims.

From BBC • Feb. 20, 2023

Competent power; validity; efficacy; as, the availableness of a title.

From Webster's Unabridged Dictionary (2nd 100 Pages) by Webster, Noah

Vocabulary lists containing competent

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

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Words to Describe Yourself on a Resume

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

List 1

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!