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.

Hoover was competent and corrupt, famously controlling the FBI with an iron fist.

From Salon • May 8, 2026

While she isn’t concerned about running out of competent, capable leaders among the high brass, she does have her concerns.

From Salon • May 1, 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

Salam offered condolences to Khalil's family and said that Lebanon would "pursue the crimes before the competent international forums".

From BBC • Apr. 23, 2026

It was nice to be the competent one for a change.

From "Uglies" by Scott Westerfeld

Vocabulary lists containing competent

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

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