Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Definitions

incompetence

[in-kom-pi-tuhns] / ɪnˈkɒm pɪ təns /
NOUN
lack of ability
Synonyms


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.

See Examples For:

“This is not just incompetence, it is designed malfunction,” he said in a conference call with reporters about the whistleblower complaint.

From Salon Sep. 2, 2026

Wright said "greed, incompetence and an inability to keep up with his own failings" had all played a part in his crimes.

From BBC Aug. 1, 2026

Never attribute to malice what you can attribute to carelessness or incompetence.

From MarketWatch Jul. 10, 2026

"Nothing, absolutely nothing, has been left to chance, particularly when it comes to the movement of this work," French Culture Minister Catherine Pegard said in June, calling some "insinuations of incompetence" particularly "unfair".

From Barron's Jul. 9, 2026

When not turning it in would be such a good reminder for my mom of her incompetence.

From "The Benefits of Being an Octopus" by Ann Braden




Vocabulary lists containing incompetence


Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Dictionary.com's Learning Companion

Go beyond just looking up words.
Remember them forever with VocabTrainer.

Start training