Find Synonyms

competence Synonyms

Another word for competence

Choosing another word for competence depends on context, so the 14 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 2 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
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• noun (Context 1)

The ability to do something successfully or efficiently; the possession of required skill, knowledge, qualification, or capacity.

Usage Example

"The surgeon demonstrated exceptional technical competency throughout the complex procedure."

Strongest
competency
capability
proficiency
ability
Strong
skill
aptitude
expertise
capacity
adeptness
know-how

• noun (Context 2)

The legal authority of a court or other official body to deal with a particular matter, or the mental capacity of a person to participate in legal proceedings.

Usage Example

"The defense attorney requested a psychiatric evaluation to determine the defendant's competency to stand trial."

Strongest
competency
Strong
jurisdiction
authority
capacity
fitness
qualification

Opposites of competence

The opposite of competence shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:

incompetence
ineptitude
incapacity
inability
performance
inefficiency
disqualification
inadequacy
See all opposites of competence

• Nearby Words

compensatory
compere
compete
competence
competency
competent
competently

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Competence. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/competence
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