lesser competence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lesser competence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone's skills or abilities are not as high as those of others. Example: "In this project, we need to be cautious about assigning tasks to individuals with lesser competence in the required areas."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Research in Australia (where they have been concerned about the gap in attainment for even longer than we have) http://http://education.theguardian.com/old/schools/story/0,,360123,00.hthatiscovered that male students were; "starting to believe the popular press rhetoric about their own lesser competence".

The Guardian - Opinion

Indeed, depicting lesser competence would have been unrealistic.

Huffington Post

However, other trajectories can lead to marginalization for individuals who seemingly "do not belong" based on perceptions of lesser competence with the core skills of the group.

BMC Medical Education

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Although the PAL concept was rated to be a good learning method (LS 1.8), student-teachers were allocated a lesser level of competence than staff lecturers (p < 0.001).

BMC Medical Education

Workplace identity correlates to a lesser extent with the competence tests (r = .14) and the apprentices' self-rating of their vocational competence (r = .16).16

Empirical Research in Vocational Education and Training

Trust in doctors seems to be influenced by the doctor's behaviuor, perceived comfort levels, personal involvement with the patient, and to a lesser extent by cultural competence and doctor's physical appearance.

BMJ Open

"Brothers & Sisters" operates on a class dynamic that allots the Walker women all the competence and kindness in the world, while portraying those born to lesser fortunes as loose, manipulative money grubbers.

The New York Times - Arts

This is especially true of Mr Brown's: after the economic debacle and lesser administrative calamities, Labour cannot build their case for re-election on the basis of competence.

The Economist

Using German PIAAC longitudinal data, Rammstedt et al. (2017) show that after controlling competences, Big Five traits incrementally predict life satisfaction and health, and to a lesser extent income, educational attainment and employability.

Large-scale Assessments in Education

The Brotherhood's political wing, resented for trying to dominate Syria's opposition councils, has had to accept a lesser role.In many cases the Ikhwan have profited electorally less from ideology than from impressions of relative honesty and competence.

The Economist

Competence matters.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing performance evaluations or skill assessments, use "lesser competence" to objectively describe areas needing improvement without being overly critical.

Common error

Avoid using "lesser competence" in contexts where it could be perceived as demeaning or overly critical. Opt for more constructive language that focuses on skill development.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lesser competence" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "lesser" modifies the noun "competence". It is used to describe a state of reduced or inadequate ability, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples where it is used to describe relative skill levels.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

67%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lesser competence" is a grammatically correct way to describe a reduced level of skill or ability. Ludwig AI indicates that while the phrase is accurate, its use should be carefully considered to avoid negative connotations. Alternatives such as "reduced ability" or "limited proficiency" may be more appropriate in certain contexts. The phrase appears in both news and scientific sources, indicating a neutral register. When using "lesser competence", focus on objectivity and avoid overly critical language. As Ludwig's examples show, the phrase often appears when assessments or skill comparisons are performed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reduced ability

Focuses on the diminished capability to perform a task.

diminished skill

Emphasizes the decline in expertise or proficiency.

lower capability

Highlights a reduced potential or capacity.

inferior aptitude

Stresses the lack of natural talent or skill.

limited proficiency

Indicates a restricted level of skill or expertise.

weaker skill set

Refers to a less developed or comprehensive range of abilities.

subpar performance

Focuses on performance that is below the expected standard.

inadequate skill

Highlights the insufficiency of skill for a particular task.

deficient expertise

Emphasizes a lack of specialized knowledge or skill.

lacking mastery

Indicates an absence of complete control or understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "lesser competence" in a sentence?

You might say, "The project failed due to the team's "lesser competence" in data analysis" or "Individuals demonstrating "lesser competence" will receive additional training.

What are some alternatives to "lesser competence"?

Consider using phrases like "reduced ability", "diminished skill", or "limited proficiency" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "lesser competence" in a formal setting?

While "lesser competence" is grammatically correct, it's important to consider the tone. In some formal settings, a more neutral phrase like "areas for improvement" might be preferred.

How does "lesser competence" differ from "incompetence"?

"Lesser competence" suggests a relative lack of skill, while "incompetence" implies a complete inability to perform a task adequately. "Lesser competence" indicates a need for improvement, whereas incompetence suggests a more serious deficiency.