Spanish word

competencia

Pronunciation

IPA/kompeˈtenθja/

Meaning

  • feminine nounability

Example

Tiene la competencia necesaria para el puesto.

They have the necessary ability for the position.

Illustration for competencia (ability)

More examples

¿Puedes demostrar tu competencia lingüística en la entrevista?

Can you demonstrate your language competence in the interview?

Core concept

Set of skills, knowledge, and attitudes enabling effective performance.

Common phrases

  • competencia lingüística

    language competence

  • demostrar competencia

    demonstrate ability

Similar words

capacidad: General ability or aptitude to do tasks or handle responsibilities.
habilidad: Practiced skill or knack showing ease and accuracy in specific actions.

Definition in Spanish

Conjunto de conocimientos, destrezas y actitudes que permiten desempeñarse bien en una actividad.

Word origin

From Latin competere 'to come together', with the sense 'to be suitable' giving a noun for the fit between a person's abilities and a task.

Usage tips

  • In everyday conversation native speakers often use habilidad or saber to sound less formal than competencia.

Other meanings

  • competitionnoun
  • jurisdictionnoun

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word