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competency

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /kəmˈpɛtənsi/

KK: /kəmˈpɛtənsi/

noun
Definition

The ability to do something successfully or efficiently; having the necessary skills or knowledge to perform a task.


Example

Her competency in project management helped the team meet their deadlines.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever thought about what competency means in the workplace?
Sloth B
Yeah, I think it’s about having the right skills for the job.
Sloth A
Exactly! It's important to keep improving our competency to stay relevant.
Sloth B
For sure! Continuous learning makes a big difference.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
skill
ability
proficiency
Antonyms
incompetence
ineptitude
failure
Root Explanation

Competency → It is formed from "com-" (meaning together) and "petere" (meaning to seek or strive). The word refers to the ability to seek or strive together in a particular area of knowledge or skill, indicating a level of proficiency or capability.

Memory Tip

Think of people 'striving together' ('com-') to achieve a certain level of skill or knowledge, which is what competency means.

Visually Confused Words
incompetency
noncompetency
incompetence
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