competent at running

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "competent at running" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone's skill level or proficiency in running, whether in a casual or formal context. Example: "She is competent at running long distances, often finishing marathons with impressive times."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The Ethiopians are more competent at running a big state than, say, the Soviets were.

The Economist

Are opponents of the popular vote saying our country is less competent at running elections than France or Mexico?

The Washington Post

He is competent at running tests and he has good medical judgment, but she's telling us there is a greater need of connection and communication.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

You improve at running by running.

The New Yorker

Facilitators should be competent in running support groups, providing psycho-education at an age-appropriate level and trained in handling sensitive information which might be shared by the sibling support group members.

Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health

True, she is a competent candidate running a decent campaign.

The Guardian

It's not just about being competent and running the business efficiently, and with vision.

The Guardian - Opinion

And even: Can someone who may soon be anesthetized from the waist down for a Caesarean section be considered competent to run the state at that point?

The New York Times

Reformers now lead the most important ministries and competent governors run key provinces.

The New York Times

The first consignment of GAVI vaccines arrived at Caia on April 6th.To qualify for help, countries must show that they are eager and competent to run vaccination programmes.

The Economist

DILLON: Further, it would be impossible to find an institutional trustee that would be competent to run the Trump Organization.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's abilities, consider using "competent at running" to highlight both their skill level and specific area of expertise. This phrase is suitable for formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "competent at" with abstract nouns that do not involve a skill or action. For example, saying "competent at understanding" is less precise than "competent in understanding".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "competent at running" functions as an adjectival phrase describing a specific skill or ability. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in English. It modifies a noun, indicating proficiency in the act of running.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "competent at running" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe someone's skill level in running. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It is most commonly found in news and media contexts, with applications extending into scientific and academic fields. When writing, remember that while both "competent at" and "competent in" can be used, "at" is preferred when referring to specific actions or skills.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

proficient in running

Replaces "competent" with "proficient" and "at" with "in", indicating a high degree of skill.

skilled in running

Uses "skilled" instead of "competent", suggesting expertise acquired through practice.

adept at running

Substitutes "competent" with "adept", implying natural ability or talent.

capable of running

Replaces "competent" with "capable", focusing on the ability to perform the action.

good at running

Uses a simpler, more general term "good" instead of "competent".

effective at running

Focuses on the efficiency and success in performing running-related tasks.

accomplished in running

Suggests a high level of achievement and expertise in the activity.

experienced in running

Highlights the practical knowledge and training gained from previous experiences.

well-versed in running

Implies a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of running techniques and strategies.

masterful at running

Conveys a very high level of skill and control in the act of running.

FAQs

How can I use "competent at running" in a sentence?

You can use "competent at running" to describe someone's ability. For example, "She is "competent at running" marathons".

What are some alternatives to "competent at running"?

Some alternatives include "skilled in running", "proficient in running", or "adept at running", each highlighting slightly different aspects of ability.

Is it correct to say "competent in running" instead of "competent at running"?

While both "competent at running" and "competent in running" are acceptable, "competent at running" is more common when referring to a specific skill or action. Consider using "skilled in running" as another option.

What does it mean to be "competent at running"?

Being "competent at running" means having a satisfactory level of skill or ability in running. It implies that one can perform running-related tasks effectively and efficiently.