as in inability
the lack of sufficient ability, power, or means
the astounding incompetence of the new assistant
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Examples Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of incompetence
At the time, even Carter's fellow Democrats fulminated against his incompetence.
—
George Monastiriakos, Newsweek, 31 Dec. 2024
Martinez's contract says he can be fired for cause, including incompetence, negligence, fraud and a range of other issues.
—Carrie Shepherd, Axios, 19 Dec. 2024
Quelle surprise: a squad built with piecemeal incompetence (and for other coaches) is struggling to get to grips with Amorim’s system.
—Phil Hay, The Athletic, 31 Dec. 2024
Still a face of incompetence, to be sure, but ahead of his time nonetheless.
—Blake Toppmeyer, The Tennessean, 19 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for incompetence 
George Monastiriakos, Newsweek, 31 Dec. 2024
Martinez's contract says he can be fired for cause, including incompetence, negligence, fraud and a range of other issues.
—Carrie Shepherd, Axios, 19 Dec. 2024
Quelle surprise: a squad built with piecemeal incompetence (and for other coaches) is struggling to get to grips with Amorim’s system.
—Phil Hay, The Athletic, 31 Dec. 2024
Still a face of incompetence, to be sure, but ahead of his time nonetheless.
—Blake Toppmeyer, The Tennessean, 19 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for incompetence
Articles Related to incompetence
Thesaurus Entries Near incompetence
Cite this Entry
“Incompetence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/incompetence. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share