Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
a true competence
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "a true competence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a genuine skill or ability that someone possesses, often in a professional or educational context. Example: "Her ability to solve complex problems quickly is a true competence that sets her apart from her peers."
✓ Grammatically correct
Animal Cognition
Large-scale Assessments in Education
Huffington Post
BMC Medical Education
SEP
The New York Times
BBC
Empirical Research in Vocational Education and Training
The Economist
TechCrunch
BMC Medical Education
The New Yorker
The Guardian
Thinking Skills and Creativity
Artificial Intelligence
Annals of Intensive Care
G3: Genes, Genomes, Genetics
Independent
Language Testing in Asia
Alternative expressions(2)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
2 human-written examples
Does this restriction reflect a true competence problem?
Science
The present study investigated whether these findings reveal a true competence problem with shape properties in the food domain or whether they merely reveal a performance problem (e.g., lack of attention to shapes).
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
57 human-written examples
Some test-takers may not reveal their true competence level simply because they are not motivated to comply with the instructions and, for instance, rush through the test or skip items.
We can only hope that the few undecided saw the difference between bluster and bigotry and true competence - and that we never have to face that self-regarding bigot as Commander-in-Chief, calling for martial law because something or someone offended his all too delicate sensibilities.
News & Media
It is important to recognize that self-perceived skills can overestimate true competence and performance, so these findings may not reflect the real critical appraisal and statistics skills of the medical students, although confidence in a skill is an important component of the performance spectrum [ 40, 41].
Science
Let me be clear here: The only way for children to build a true sense of competence is through first-hand experience that includes travails, triumphs, struggles, setbacks, and successes.
News & Media
Given the widespread utilisation of the UMAT for selection into medical, dental and allied health courses in Australia and New Zealand such practice effects need further evaluation at the level of individual item level data to ascertain the extent to which they might represent inflated performance or a true increase in competence on re-testing.
Science
This explanation raises important questions about how to understand the relevant "because of" relation here: what exactly is the difference between a true belief being held because of an epistemic competence, and a belief being correct because of an epistemic competence?
Science
However, virtue reliabilists typically understand knowledge as involving some sort of explanatory relation between having a true belief and the exercise of an epistemic competence.
Science
A true New Yorker.
News & Media
A true A-Lister".
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When emphasizing someone's genuine skill, use "a true competence" to highlight that their ability is not superficial or merely theoretical.
Common error
Avoid using "a true competence" when referring to merely fulfilling basic requirements; reserve it for situations where the skill or ability significantly exceeds expectations or demonstrates profound mastery.
Source & Trust
86%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "a true competence" functions as a noun phrase that describes a genuine and demonstrable ability or skill. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is usable in written English, and examples show it often refers to skills evaluated in professional or academic settings.
Frequent in
Science
40%
News & Media
30%
Formal & Business
15%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
5%
Wiki
5%
Reference
5%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "a true competence" is a phrase used to denote a genuine and demonstrable skill, often in professional or academic contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While relatively rare, the phrase is grammatically correct and carries a degree of formality, making it suitable for emphasizing substantive abilities. Related phrases include "a genuine skill" and "an authentic ability". When using this phrase, ensure it reflects a skill that exceeds basic compliance, highlighting a high level of proficiency.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
a genuine capability
Replaces 'competence' with 'capability', emphasizing inherent potential and skill.
an authentic skill
Uses 'authentic' instead of 'true', highlighting the genuineness and validity of the skill.
a real aptitude
Substitutes 'competence' with 'aptitude', focusing on a natural talent or inclination.
a veritable mastery
Emphasizes a high level of skill and control.
a demonstrable proficiency
Highlights skills that can be clearly shown and proven.
a proven expertise
Focuses on expertise that has been validated through experience and results.
a legitimate strength
Highlights a genuine and valid strength in a particular area.
a valid qualification
Focuses on competence as a formal requirement or credential.
a solid command
Emphasizes complete control and knowledge of the subject or skill.
a substantive ability
Highlights the importance and significance of the skill or ability.
FAQs
How can I use "a true competence" in a sentence?
You can use "a true competence" to describe a skill or ability that is genuine and demonstrable. For example, "Her problem-solving skills are "a true competence" that makes her invaluable to the team."
What's the difference between "a true competence" and "a basic skill"?
"A basic skill" implies a fundamental level of ability, while ""a true competence"" suggests a higher level of proficiency and mastery. The former is about meeting minimum requirements, the latter is about excelling.
What are some alternatives to "a true competence"?
Alternatives include "a genuine skill", "an authentic ability", or "a real aptitude", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.
In what contexts is it most appropriate to use "a true competence"?
It is appropriate in contexts where you want to emphasize not just the presence of a skill, but also its quality and effectiveness. This is often seen in professional, educational, or scientific discussions.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
86%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested