incompetence

noun

in·​com·​pe·​tence (ˌ)in-ˈkäm-pə-tən(t)s How to pronounce incompetence (audio)
: the state or fact of being incompetent

Examples of incompetence in a Sentence

Because of his incompetence, we won't make our deadline. She was fired for gross incompetence.
Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Society often teaches us that failure is something to be avoided at all costs, a mark of inadequacy or incompetence. Benjamin Laker, Forbes, 8 Oct. 2024 Trump made anti-science incompetence and disregard for the welfare of Americans part of our history. Michael Hiltzik, Los Angeles Times, 3 Oct. 2024 If there’s justice in this world, Fisher will pay the price for his mismanagement and incompetence in the years to come. Dieter Kurtenbach, The Mercury News, 26 Sep. 2024 Conscious Incompetence: Recognizing the Gaps In the second stage, conscious incompetence, an aspiring Gen Z leader realizes that effective leadership is more complex than anticipated and recognizes gaps that need attention. Nate Bennett, Forbes, 23 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for incompetence 

Word History

First Known Use

1663, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of incompetence was in 1663

Dictionary Entries Near incompetence

Cite this Entry

“Incompetence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/incompetence. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

incompetence

noun
in·​com·​pe·​tence (ˈ)in-ˈkäm-pət-ən(t)s How to pronounce incompetence (audio)
: the quality, state, or fact of being incompetent

Medical Definition

incompetence

noun
in·​com·​pe·​tence (ˈ)in-ˈkäm-pət-ən(t)s How to pronounce incompetence (audio)
1
: lack of legal qualification
2
: inability of an organ or part to perform its function adequately
incompetence of an aortic valve

Legal Definition

incompetence

noun
in·​com·​pe·​tence in-ˈkäm-pə-təns How to pronounce incompetence (audio)
: the state or fact of being incompetent compare competency

More from Merriam-Webster on incompetence

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