competence
UK: ˈkɒmpɪtəns | US: ˈkɑːmpɪtəns
n. the ability to do something successfully or efficiently
n. the legal authority of a court or other body to deal with a particular matter
n. (linguistics) a speaker's implicit knowledge of the rules of their language
competence = compete<strive> + ence<noun suffix>
- compete: From Latin competere ("to strive together, coincide"), from com- (together) + petere (to seek, aim).
- ence: A noun-forming suffix indicating a state or quality, derived from Latin -entia.
Etymology Origin:
The word competence traces back to Latin competentia, meaning "agreement, symmetry, or proportion." Over time, it evolved to signify "sufficiency" or "fitness" in Middle French, eventually entering English in the 16th century with the sense of "adequate ability." The modern meaning emphasizes proficiency or legal jurisdiction, reflecting the original idea of "meeting a standard" (from compete's root meaning of "striving together").
Her technical competence made her the best candidate for the job.
The court questioned its competence to rule on the international dispute.
Language competence involves both grammar and cultural understanding.
The training program aims to improve employees' digital competence.
His competence in crisis management saved the company from bankruptcy.