competency
KOM-puh-tun-see
/ˈkɒmpɪtənsi/
The ability to do something successfully or efficiently; a specific range of skill or knowledge.
Often used in HR to describe the specific measurable skills required for a job.
The story behind the word. The root 'competere' means 'to meet' or 'to agree.' Originally, it meant that your skills 'met' or 'agreed with' the requirements of the task.
Word relationships
- proficiency: Proficiency is a high degree of skill; competency is the basic ability to meet a standard.
- capability: Capability is the potential to do something; competency is the proven ability.
- incompetence: The inability to do something successfully.
Commonly confused with
- competition: Competition is a contest between rivals; competency is an individual's skill level.
Word family
- competence (noun): Synonym for competency.
- competent (adjective): Having the necessary ability.
Collocations
- core competency
- technical competency
- demonstrate competency
Example sentences
- "The role requires a high level of technical competency in software development." Job requirements.
- "The court questioned the mental competency of the witness." Legal standards.
Memory hook
To be Competent, you must be able to 'Compete' in your field. Competency = Ability to Compete.
When not to use
Don't use it to mean just 'being okay' at something; it implies a high, professional standard.
Fun facts
- In linguistics, 'competence' refers to a person's subconscious knowledge of the rules of their language.
Related words
Explore more words
proficient, expertise, implementation, efficacy, savvy, effective
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