incompetence

noun

in·​com·​pe·​tence (ˌ)in-ˈkäm-pə-tən(t)s 

: the state or fact of being incompetent

Synonyms

• inability

Examples of incompetence in a Sentence

Because of his incompetence, we won't make our deadline.

She was fired for gross incompetence.

Recent Examples on the Web

Cloobeck is also running a television ad in Orange County – where the California Republican Party’s convention takes place this weekend – accusing Bianco of corruption and incompetence. —Nicole Nixon, Sacbee.com, 5 Sep. 2025

Beyond Venezuelan incompetence, American pressure and fears of uncontrollable escalation may be driving Chinese caution. —Wesley Alexander Hill, Forbes.com, 3 Sep. 2025

Until Thursday, Jerry Jones’ incompetence was reserved for Netflix. —Troy Renck, Denver Post, 29 Aug. 2025

The Administration's extremism and incompetence are putting lives at risk. —Jordan King, MSNBC Newsweek, 28 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1663, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for incompetence

• competence

Kids Definition

incompetence

noun

in·​com·​pe·​tence (ˈ)in-ˈkäm-pət-ən(t)s 

: the quality, state, or fact of being incompetent

Medical Definition

incompetence

noun

in·​com·​pe·​tence (ˈ)in-ˈkäm-pət-ən(t)s 

1

: lack of legal qualification

2

: inability of an organ or part to perform its function adequately

incompetence of an aortic valve

Legal Definition

incompetence

noun

in·​com·​pe·​tence in-ˈkäm-pə-təns 

: the state or fact of being incompetent compare competency