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competence

The ability to do something successfully or efficiently. / The legal authority of a court or official to hear a case or make a decision.

Noun

pl: competences

This term describes a level of proficiency that goes beyond mere knowledge, implying a practical, demonstrated ability to execute tasks to a required standard. It carries a professional and objective tone, often used in educational or corporate settings to define benchmarks of success.

In legal contexts, the word shifts from personal skill to institutional power. It refers to the legitimate right or jurisdiction of a body to exercise authority, making it a technical term of art in law rather than a description of talent.

Meanings

Noun

The ability to do something successfully or efficiently.

His technical competence is well known throughout the industry.

Noun

The legal authority of a court or official to hear a case or make a decision.

The judge questioned whether the tribunal had the competence to rule on the matter.

Examples

The new employee demonstrated great competence in managing the complex project.

The court lacked the competence to handle the international dispute.

Last Updated: May 2026•Report an Error