Words / B2

KOMP-it-uh-nt/ˈkɒmpɪtənt/

Competent means able to do something well enough: a competent driver, competent in French. Capable is a close everyday cousin; skilled is stronger; able is broader. Competence is the noun. In speech, good enough / can do it is enough. Competent is often measured praise — solid, not dazzling. Do not use it as an insult (“merely competent”) unless you intend that sting, and do not confuse it with competitive (wanting to win).

Meaning

Able to do something well enough.

Examples

• “He is a competent driver.”
• “He is a competent chair: meetings end on time, with a decision.”
• “A competent summary is better than a flashy one that misses the point.”

Good to know

Able enough; solid. Noun: competence. Everyday: capable / good enough. Stronger: skilled. Contrast: competitive = wanting to win.

Near in meaning

capable

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