Definitions

incompetent

[in-kom-pi-tuhnt] / ɪnˈkɒm pɪ tənt /

ADJECTIVE

unskillful, unable

Synonyms

STRONGEST

amateurish helpless inadequate incapable ineffectual inefficient inept inexperienced unqualified unskilled useless

STRONG

amateur raw

WEAK

awkward bungling bush-league clumsy disqualified floundering ineligible inexpert insufficient maladroit not cut out for not equal to not have it out to lunch unadapted unequipped unfit unfitted unhandy uninitiated unproficient untrained

Antonyms

STRONGEST

able capable competent expert qualified skilled strong useful

WEAK

adept dexterous effective efficient experienced proficient skillful

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.

"Incompetent cervix" is a medical term for when the neck of the womb shortens and opens earlier than usual in pregnancy, which can contribute to premature birth.

From BBC • Jun. 14, 2022

Incompetent spy Clayton Lonetree is described as “somewhere between a schmendrick and a tool.”

From Washington Times • Oct. 21, 2019

Incompetent henchmen are the M.V.P.s of crime serials.

From New York Times • Jan. 26, 2015

Incompetent upper management decisions, unreasonable workloads, and a general lack of respect for engineers were among his reasons for fleeing the field.

From Slate • Jun. 29, 2012

“Do people think she was...I don’t know. Incompetent? Crazy?”

From "The Parker Inheritance" by Varian Johnson

Vocabulary lists containing incompetent

Essential Academic Vocabulary for High School Students, List 3

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!

ACT Vocabulary List

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!

Awkward Moments

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!