incompetence

noun

in·​com·​pe·​tence (ˌ)in-ˈkäm-pə-tən(t)s 

: the state or fact of being incompetent

Synonyms of incompetence

• inability

Examples of incompetence in a Sentence

Because of his incompetence, we won't make our deadline.

She was fired for gross incompetence.

Recent Examples on the Web

Recovering monies lost through theft, fraud and or incompetence. —Kaitlyn Schallhorn, Oc Register, 4 May 2026

On Saturday Night Live, FBI Director Kash Patel attempted to put to rest allegations of workplace incompetence and abuse of privileges—only to cause more skepticism about his behavior. —William Vaillancourt, Rolling Stone, 3 May 2026

But that type of incompetence from distance isn’t going to cut it in this series. —Jace Frederick, Twin Cities, 2 May 2026

Sensing hesitance as well as incompetence, coaches and players alike tried to sway the flailing fill-ins at every turn. —Michael Silver, New York Times, 30 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1663, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for incompetence

• competence

Kids Definition

incompetence

noun

in·​com·​pe·​tence (ˈ)in-ˈkäm-pət-ən(t)s 

: the quality, state, or fact of being incompetent

Medical Definition

incompetence

noun

in·​com·​pe·​tence (ˈ)in-ˈkäm-pət-ən(t)s 

1

: lack of legal qualification

2

: inability of an organ or part to perform its function adequately

incompetence of an aortic valve

Legal Definition

incompetence

noun

in·​com·​pe·​tence in-ˈkäm-pə-təns 

: the state or fact of being incompetent compare competency