incompetent
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ɪnˈkɒmpɪtənt/
KK: /ɪnˈkɑːmpɪtənt/
adjective
Definition
Not having the necessary skills or abilities to do something effectively.
Example
The incompetent manager made several poor decisions that affected the team's performance.
Conversation
Did you see that presentation yesterday?
Yeah, it was a bit rough around the edges.
I thought the speaker seemed really incompetent at times.
I agree, it felt like they weren't prepared at all.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
inept
unskilled
unfit
Antonyms
competent
capable
qualified
noun
Definition
A person who lacks the skills or ability to do something effectively or properly.
Example
The team struggled because they had an incompetent leader who couldn't make decisions.
Conversation
Did you see how that new employee handled the presentation?
Yeah, it was a bit of a mess, wasn't it?
Honestly, I think he might be an incompetent hire for this team.
Root Explanation
Incompetent → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "competent" (from Latin "competens", meaning suitable or qualified). The word "incompetent" means not suitable or not qualified for a particular task or role.
Memory Tip
Think of 'not' ('in-') being added to 'qualified' ('competent') — this helps you remember that 'incompetent' means someone who is not qualified.
Visually Confused Words
uncompetent
competent
noncompetent
omnicompetent
competently