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
improve competence
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
"improve competence" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It refers to the act of increasing or enhancing one's skills or capabilities in a particular area. It can be used in many situations where someone is looking to develop or strengthen their abilities. For example: - The training program aims to improve competence in customer service and communication skills. - She enrolled in a language course to improve competence in speaking Chinese. - The company's main focus this quarter is to improve competence in project management. - The new hire was brought on to the team to help improve the team's overall competence in data analysis.
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Alternative expressions(19)
enhance expertise
develop proficiency
sharpen skills
improve expertise
boost capabilities
cultivate skills
build expertise
improve capability
improve ability
improve skill
improve competitiveness
provide competence
greater competence
improve skills
improve qualifications
improve competences
improve competencies
improve proficiency
improve knowledge
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
14 human-written examples
I don't need to fight or flight in order to improve competence, improve relationships with people, or improve my freedom.
News & Media
Phosphodiesterase 3A inhibitors were found to improve competence of oocytes matured in vitro in several species, including humans.
Science
It is unknown which aspects of transition programs best support new graduate nurses improve competence and confidence to transition into critical care nursing specialties.
Science
A six week program was developed and implemented to improve competence of preservice science teachers to design an inquiry based lab lesson.
The rapid increase in the uptake of simulation-based education in Canada is due in large part to the belief that these techniques offer a safe environment for learners to improve competence.
Science
Inspiring girls to be joyful, healthy and confident, Girls On The Run programs teach important life skills designed to develop and improve competence and confidence, while simultaneously introducing girls to the benefits of running and exercise.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
46 human-written examples
This question fits into broader discussions on how knowledge construction, circulation and utilization can improve competences in local government (efficiency and effectiveness), make urban planning more knowledge-based, and provide greater recognition of citizens' knowledge (accountability).
Science
We also revealed improving competence in terms of education.
From the literature, it was understood that blended coagulants show improved competence than that of the individual ones.
The authors propose an interdisciplinary team training model as an appropriate design for improving competence and promoting collaborative care.
Overall, students reported improved competence following the simulation with an average change of 4 points (±13), but 40% of the students from all iterations reported negative shifts.
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When aiming to "improve competence", provide specific examples of skills or knowledge areas that will be enhanced. This adds clarity and demonstrates a concrete goal.
Common error
Avoid using "improve competence" without specifying the area of competence. Saying "improve competence" alone lacks direction. Instead, state "improve competence in data analysis" or "improve competence in project management".
Source & Trust
77%
Authority and reliability
4.6/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "improve competence" functions as a verb phrase, with "improve" acting as the verb and "competence" as the direct object. Ludwig shows it's often used to describe the action of enhancing skills or capabilities in a particular area.
Frequent in
Science
55%
News & Media
23%
Formal & Business
10%
Less common in
Wiki
7%
Encyclopedias
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "improve competence" is a grammatically sound and relatively common phrase used to describe the act of enhancing skills or abilities. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is widely accepted. It appears most frequently in scientific and news contexts. To maximize clarity, it's best to specify the area of competence you aim to enhance, such as "improve competence in data analysis". Alternatives like "enhance expertise" or "develop proficiency" can provide nuanced meanings depending on the specific context. Remember, clear and specific goals lead to more effective communication.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
enhance expertise
Focuses on refining and augmenting specialized knowledge or skill.
develop proficiency
Emphasizes the gradual growth and mastery of a skill or ability.
sharpen skills
Highlights the act of refining and making skills more precise.
boost capabilities
Suggests an increase in one's capacity to perform tasks effectively.
advance skill set
Implies moving forward and expanding the range of one's abilities.
refine abilities
Focuses on making existing abilities more polished and effective.
hone talents
Highlights the process of perfecting and developing natural aptitudes.
cultivate skills
Suggests nurturing and fostering the growth of specific skills.
upgrade performance
Emphasizes improving the level of execution and achievement.
build expertise
Focuses on establishing and expanding a strong foundation of knowledge and skill.
FAQs
How can I use "improve competence" in a sentence?
You can use "improve competence" to describe efforts to enhance skills or abilities, such as "The training program aims to "improve competence" in project management" or "Continuous learning can "improve competence" and confidence."
What are some alternatives to "improve competence"?
Instead of "improve competence", consider using phrases like "enhance expertise", "develop proficiency", or "sharpen skills" depending on the specific context.
Is it better to say "improve competence" or "improve skills"?
While both are correct, "improve skills" is generally more specific and easily understood. "Improve competence" implies a broader range of capabilities and is suitable when referring to overall effectiveness in a particular area. You can also "improve expertise".
What's the difference between "improve competence" and "enhance expertise"?
"Improve competence" generally refers to increasing one's overall ability in a given area, while "enhance expertise" focuses on refining and deepening specialized knowledge or skills. It suggests taking existing knowledge to a higher level.
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
77%
Authority and reliability
4.6/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested