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.

General manager Joe Hortiz’s midseason acquisition of Oweh reinforced just how much they needed a competent edge rusher last season.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 22, 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

This culture is at the heart of a competent military, and indeed is essential to the morale and cohesion that makes the American armed forces the envy of the world.

From Slate • Apr. 13, 2026

They were pink, fat, friendly, very competent and sweated profusely.

From "Life of Pi" by Yann Martel

Vocabulary lists containing competent

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

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