incompetence
[ in-kom-pi-tuhns ]
/ ɪnˈkɒm pɪ təns /
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noun
the quality or condition of being incompetent; lack of ability.
Law. the condition of lacking power to act with legal effectiveness.
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Also in·com·pe·ten·cy [in-kom-pi-tuhn-see] /ɪnˈkɒm pɪ tən si/ .
Origin of incompetence
First recorded in 1655–65; from French incompétence (equivalent to in- negative prefix + compétence); variant of earlier incompetency;see origin at incompetent;see also -cy, -ence, -ency
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2022
How to use incompetence in a sentence
Then with rapid words he heaps upon the unfortunate man accusations of personal incompetencies.
The Life of Cicero|Anthony TrollopeMoreover, certain incompetencies had revealed themselves in the French high command.
He gazed—not without a vague shame—into a perspective of incompetencies.
From One Generation to Another|Henry Seton MerrimanBy all these methods it stimulates his mind, hardens his nature, and supplies his incompetencies.
Medical definitions for incompetence
incompetence
[ ĭn-kŏm′pĭ-təns ]
n.
The quality of being incompetent or incapable of performing a function, as the failure of the cardiac valves to close properly.
The condition of being not legally qualified, as to stand trial.
The inability to distinguish right from wrong or to manage one's affairs.
The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary
Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.