competent
UK: ˈkɒmpɪtənt | US: ˈkɑːmpɪtənt
adj. having the necessary ability, knowledge, or skill to do something successfully
adj. adequate or suitable for a specific purpose
adj. (law) legally qualified or authorized
competent = com<together> + pet<seek> + ent<adjective suffix>
- com: Prefix meaning "together" or "with" (from Latin cum).
- pet: Root meaning "seek" or "strive" (from Latin petere).
- ent: Suffix forming adjectives, indicating "having the quality of" (from Latin -entem).
Etymology Origin:
The word "competent" traces back to Latin competentem (present participle of competere), combining com- (together) and petere (to seek). Originally, it implied "striving together" or "meeting requirements," evolving into its modern sense of being adequately qualified or capable. The root pet also appears in words like "compete" (seek jointly) and "petition" (formal request).
She is highly competent in managing complex projects.
The candidate demonstrated competent knowledge during the interview.
This tool is competent for basic repairs but not advanced tasks.
Only a competent authority can approve these legal documents.
His competent handling of the crisis earned him praise.