competente
“competente” means “competent” in Spanish (having the necessary skill or knowledge).
competent
Also: capable, qualified, proper
📝 In Action
Necesitamos contratar a un ingeniero competente para este proyecto.
B1We need to hire a competent engineer for this project.
Ella es muy competente en su trabajo y siempre termina a tiempo.
B1She is very capable at her job and always finishes on time.
Ese tribunal no es competente para decidir sobre este caso.
B2That court is not the proper authority to decide on this case.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: competente
Question 1 of 3
If you want to say your boss is very good at her job, you would say she is:
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'competere', which originally meant 'to meet' or 'to coincide'. Over time, it evolved to mean being 'fit' or 'suitable' for a specific task.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'competente' always mean 'qualified'?
Mostly, yes. In everyday Spanish, it means someone has the skills to do a job. In legal Spanish, it specifically refers to a judge or official who has the legal right to handle a specific case.
Is 'competente' a formal word?
It is slightly more formal than 'bueno' (good), but it is used in everyday conversation, especially when talking about work, school, or doctors.
Can I use 'competente' for objects?
It's rare. We usually use it for people, groups (like a team), or institutions (like a ministry or court). For a tool or machine, 'eficiente' or 'útil' is better.