Origin: Latin suffix -ence
Competence has 2 different meanings across 1 category:
the quality of being adequately or well qualified physically and intellectually
"The new surgeon's competence was immediately evident during the complex operation, as her physical steadiness matched her sharp medical knowledge."
The quality or state of being competent, i.e. able or suitable for a general role.
"The new manager's competence in handling diverse team dynamics quickly earned her respect across the department."
In plain English: Competence is having enough skill and knowledge to do something well without needing help.
"The new manager was hired for her technical competence in coding."
Usage: Competence refers to the ability to perform tasks effectively rather than merely possessing knowledge about them. Use this word when describing someone's practical skill level in their job or daily activities instead of abstract intelligence.
The word competence comes from Middle French and ultimately from the Late Latin competentia. It entered English as a doublet of the related term competency.