competent
UK[ˈkɒmpɪtənt]US[ˈkɑːmpɪtənt]
adj
having the necessary ability, knowledge, or skill to do something successfully.
adj
acceptable and satisfactory, though not outstanding.
Morpheme Breakdown
com
pet
ent
com
together
pet
seek, strive
ent
adjective suffix
Etymology
the word "competent" originates from the latin verb 'competere', which is composed of 'com-' (together) and 'petere' (to seek, strive). its original sense was "to come together, agree, be suitable". this evolved into the legal latin term 'competens', meaning "having the right or authority to deal with something". the semantic journey moved from a literal "striving together" to the notion of being adequately qualified or sufficient for a task, reflecting a shift from external agreement to internal capability. the modern english meaning, established by the late 16th century, centers on possessing the necessary skill or authority.
Analysis
Structure: com (together) + pet (seek, strive) + ent (adjective suffix)
- com: from latin, a prefix meaning "together, with".
- pet: from latin 'petere', meaning "to seek, aim at, strive for".
- ent: from latin '-ent-', an adjectival suffix meaning "being in a state or condition".
Examples
she is highly competent in managing complex projects.
he made a competent presentation, though it lacked inspiration.
the court ruled that he was competent to stand trial.