competences

noun

plural of competence
as in abilities
the physical or mental power to do something questioned his competence to finish the task without help

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of competences These parties’ platforms vary, but both point toward repatriating competences to national governments, weakening European Court of Justice jurisdiction, and loosening the common rules that make EU commitments credible to outside partners. — Jonas Nahm, Foreign Affairs, 14 Sep. 2026 Over billions of years, increasingly greater competences evolved. — Jonny Thomson, Big Think, 20 Aug. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for competences
  1. abilities
  2. competencies
Noun
  • The program welcomes runners of all abilities in fourth through eighth grades with options for high school students too.
    — Donald Fountain, CBS News, 16 Oct. 2026
  • After three months, their cognitive abilities improved to levels comparable to those of middle-aged adults.
    — Julia Eskins, Vogue, 14 Oct. 2026
Definition of abilities
Noun
  • The organization never really tested their ability to demonstrate competencies and skills for the new job, just their ability to manage their previous responsibilities.
    — Christina Greenberg, Forbes.com, 16 Oct. 2026
  • Friendships give teens space to develop social skills, learn emotional competencies and explore identity.
    — Ashley Lynch, Sacbee.com, 12 Oct. 2026
Definition of competencies

Browse Nearby Words

competence
competences
competencies
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Cite this Entry

“Competences.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/competences. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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