competencies

USAGE SUMMARY

"competencies" is a correct and usable word in written English.
It can be used to describe the skills and abilities required to carry out a task or a job, or to describe the level of proficiency someone has in a certain skill or activity. For example: "Linda has the necessary competencies to handle the role of Customer Service Manager."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Mortimer says trusts are investing in support staff to meet the core competencies required by the new care certificate, which all care workers will have to achieve before they can work unsupervised.

The Guardian

In a swipe at David Cameron's plans for a renegotiation and in/out referendum by 2017, Blair will call on pro-Europeans to "make the debate more than about the repatriation of certain competencies and rules".

The Guardian

In order to achieve the maximum pay for the relevant band, members of staff have to develop skills and competencies.

The Guardian

Then you try to find out the raw material and the competencies.

The New York Times

There are techniques to try to find out their competencies, but I think it's become like an arms race, with interviewees knowing the tools you use to learn their competencies, and they prepare for them.

The New York Times

A former executive of Blue Circle, a British cement maker, once said that his company diversified into lawn mowers in the 1980s (it bought the Qualcast brand) on no firmer grounds than "your garden is next to your house".Today, the focus among manufacturing industries is on "core competencies".

The Economist

It should set out the EU's mission in simple language, clarify for befuddled voters the role and responsibilities of its institutions, and draw a clear distinction between supranational and national competencies.

The Economist

But there is a problem with this theory, too: it implies that some firms will grow faster than others over long periods, because they possess durable competencies that are difficult to imitate.But that is not so.

The Economist

The two business academics wrote Core competencies are the collective learning in the organisation, especially how to co-ordinate diverse production skills and integrate multiple streams of technologies...core competence is communication, involvement and a deep commitment to working across organisational boundaries...core competence does not diminish with use.

The Economist

Porter had turned strategic thinking back in the direction of Frederick Taylor; Prahalad and Hamel changed that direction by several degrees.The drive to identify core competencies moved in line with the growing popularity of outsourcing.

The Economist

The exams did not test for modern competencies such as awareness of foreign affairs, science and technology (the study of languages was discouraged).

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In formal settings, especially business and academic writing, "competencies" adds a layer of professionalism and thoroughness when outlining necessary capabilities.

Common error

Avoid using "competencies" when "competence" (the state of being competent) is more appropriate. "Competencies" refers to specific sets of skills, while "competence" describes the overall ability to perform a task successfully.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "competencies" is as a plural noun. It refers to the specific and measurable attributes, "skills", "knowledge", and abilities that are necessary for successful performance in a particular role or context. Ludwig AI validates this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Encyclopedias

13%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "competencies" functions as a plural noun denoting essential skills and abilities required for specific roles or tasks. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage across diverse contexts. It is frequently found in News & Media, Encyclopedias, and Science. When writing, remember that "competencies" refers to the sets of "skills" themselves, and should not be confused with "competence", which describes the state of being capable. Using "competencies" effectively enhances clarity and professionalism, particularly in business, education, and organizational settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

skills

Emphasizes practical application and proficiency in specific areas.

abilities

Suggests a natural or acquired talent for doing something well.

proficiencies

Highlights a high degree of competence and skill.

capabilities

Focuses on the potential to perform tasks, rather than demonstrated skills.

aptitudes

Implies an inherent potential or suitability for learning or performing.

strengths

Focuses on the positive attributes and capabilities an individual possesses.

expertise

Highlights specialized knowledge and mastery in a particular field.

talents

Emphasizes innate gifts and exceptional skills.

qualifications

Refers to the formal credentials and requirements met for a role or task.

know-how

Stresses practical knowledge and the ability to apply it effectively.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "competencies" in a sentence?

Use "competencies" to refer to the specific skills, knowledge, and abilities required for a particular role or task. For example, "The training program aims to develop essential leadership "skills" and "competencies" among employees."

What are some alternatives to using the word "competencies"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "capabilities", ""skills"", "qualifications", or "expertise" to convey a similar meaning.

How do "competencies" differ from "skills"?

"Competencies" often encompass a broader range of abilities, including "knowledge", "skills", and personal attributes, while "skills" typically refer to specific, measurable abilities. "Competencies" are often used to define job requirements and performance standards.

In what contexts is it most appropriate to use the term "competencies"?

"Competencies" is particularly appropriate in professional settings such as human resources, education, and organizational development, where defining and assessing specific skill sets is essential for success.