incompetence
UK: ɪnˈkɒmpɪtəns | US: ɪnˈkɑːmpɪtəns
n. lack of the ability or skill to do something successfully
n. failure to meet a required standard; inadequacy
The word "incompetence" combines the Latin prefix in- (meaning "not") with the root compete (from Latin competere, "to strive together" or "be suitable"). The suffix -ence forms a noun indicating a state or quality. Originally, "compete" implied suitability or capability, so "incompetence" literally means "the state of not being capable." Over time, it narrowed to describe a lack of skill or adequacy in professional or practical contexts.
His incompetence led to the project's failure.
The manager was fired for gross incompetence.
She accused the government of bureaucratic incompetence.
The report highlighted systemic incompetence in the organization.
Despite his incompetence, he was promoted due to nepotism.