Synonyms of incompetence

incompetence

noun

(ˌ)in-ˈkäm-pə-tən(t)s 

as in inability

the lack of sufficient ability, power, or means

the astounding incompetence of the new assistant

Synonyms & Similar Words

• inability
• incompetency
• ineptitude
• incapacity
• impotence
• powerlessness
• incapability
• inadequacy
• insufficiency
• disqualification
• inefficiency
• ineffectiveness
• inaptitude
• inefficacy
• ineffectuality
• ineffectualness
• inefficaciousness

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• competence
• ability
• competency
• capacity
• capability
• adequacy
• potency
• talent
• efficiency
• gift
• aptitude
• genius
• flair
• effectiveness
• knack
• endowment
• bent
• power
• suitability
• strength
• fitness
• potency
• efficaciousness
• effectualness
• suitableness
• puissance
• sinew

Examples Sentences

Recent Examples of incompetence

Muradov faced criticism for poor tactical decisions, irresponsibility, tyranny, and incompetence, The Insider said. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 29 Nov. 2024

The end result is incompetence that is not only destructive but deadly for New Yorkers. —Michael Ruiz, Fox News, 25 Nov. 2024

Throughout history, in the United States and elsewhere, the imposition of political control on a civil service has been a recipe for incompetence and anti-democratic abuse. —Zack Beauchamp, Vox, 1 Nov. 2024

Eastwood’s story runs on the bedrock of the unimpeachable, confident that there is a definite truth to be discovered about an event such as the killing of Kendall and that only malevolence or incompetence could prevent its discovery. —Richard Brody, The New Yorker, 30 Oct. 2024