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What is another word for Incompetent? – 131 Incompetent Synonyms

    Need another word for Incompetent? Use these synonyms of Incompetent from our thesaurus to say it differently.


    Synonyms & Similar Words

    inadequate inept unskilled ineffectual inefficient incapable unqualified untrained amateurish clumsy hapless helpless ineffective uninspired unprofessional careless negligent irresponsible lacking limited poor subpar mediocre unaccomplished unsuccessful feeble weak powerless inelegant maladroit bumbling fumbling blundering botching miscalculating mismanaging.

    Meaning of Incompetent

    The primary meaning of "incompetent" refers to a lack of ability or qualification to perform a task or job.

    Definitions

    • Lacking the necessary skills, knowledge, or experience to do something successfully
    • Not having the legal capacity or qualifications to perform a particular role or function
    • Incapable or unqualified to perform a task, job, or role due to a lack of skills, training, or expertise

    Etymology of Incompetent

    The word "incompetent" originates from the Latin words "in-" meaning "not" and "competens" meaning "eligible" or "qualified", with "competens" derived from "competere" meaning "to be suitable" or "to suffice"
    Historically, the term has been used to describe individuals who lack the necessary qualifications, skills, or abilities to perform a specific task or job, with its usage dating back to the 15th century

    Example Uses

    • The new employee was deemed incompetent and let go after a series of mistakes
    • The judge ruled that the defendant was incompetent to stand trial due to mental health issues
    • The company's incompetent management led to significant financial losses and a decline in reputation

    Antonyms & Near Antonyms

    competent capable skilled proficient effective efficient qualified trained professional expert adept accomplished successful strong powerful elegant skilled talented gifted apt able suited fit equipped experienced.

    Related Nouns

    incompetence capability capacity qualification skill expertise proficiency effectiveness efficiency productivity performance management leadership direction guidance supervision oversight administration governance regulation control.

    Related Verbs

    manage lead direct guide supervise oversee administer govern regulate control perform execute accomplish achieve succeed fail disappoint undermine compromise jeopardize weaken.

    Related Adjectives

    capable skilled proficient effective efficient qualified trained professional expert adept accomplished successful strong powerful elegant skilled talented gifted apt able suited fit equipped experienced inept inadequate unskilled ineffectual.