Words / C1

in-KOMP-it-uh-nt/ɪnˈkɒmpɪtənt/

Incompetent means not having the skill or ability needed to do a job properly: an incompetent officer, declared incompetent. Incompetence (this batch) is the noun; capable sits opposite. Filming grit is branding, not a room list.

Meaning

Not having the skill or ability needed to do a job properly.

Examples

• “An incompetent invigilator still has to be named off the room, not filmed as grit.”
• “Unskilled is milder. Inept (this batch) is clumsier. Grit is a caption. A room list is a rota. Take the name off; keep grit for the prospectus.”

Good to know

Not able to do the job. Noun: incompetence (this batch). Grit ≠ a named-off room.

Near in meaning

unskilled, inept, incapable

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