more competent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "more competent" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a higher level of proficiency or ability than another. For example, "After joining the team, Mary proved to be far more competent than the other employees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The U.N. needs more competent troops.

The New York Times

Perhaps the bankers then were more competent.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Our pupils become more competent learners.

The Guardian

"He was more competent than I thought.

The New Yorker

Are Empathic Doctors Seen as More Competent?

University of California, Berkeley

Do you think westerns make men feel more competent?

The New York Times - Magazine

Deformation may be localised in more competent sediments.

Journal of Structural Geology

"Women are more competent and they don't have massive egos".

The Guardian - Sport

I think I'm much more competent than all of them.

The New Yorker

The British, by contrast, are less curious but more competent.

Harvard Business Review

4) Some techniques (and coaches) are more competent than others.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing abilities, use "more competent" to clearly indicate a higher level of skill or proficiency compared to a specific benchmark or individual.

Common error

Avoid using "more competent" without a clear comparison. Saying someone is simply "more competent" lacks context; specify who or what they are more competent than for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "more competent" functions as a comparative adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a higher degree of skill or ability. Ludwig provides examples where it's used to compare individuals, teams, or even systems, emphasizing their superior capabilities. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase follows standard grammar rules.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "more competent" is a grammatically correct and widely used phrase for indicating a higher degree of skill or ability compared to something else. As Ludwig AI validates, it adheres to standard grammar rules. The phrase sees frequent use across various contexts, from news and media to academia and science. For clarity, always specify the point of comparison when using the phrase. Remember that phrases like "more skilled" or "better qualified" can serve as effective alternatives, depending on the context. By understanding its function and purpose, you can confidently and effectively use "more competent" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more capable

Focuses on inherent ability and potential.

more skilled

Highlights the proficiency and expertise in a specific area.

more proficient

Emphasizes the advanced level of competence achieved through practice.

better qualified

Indicates superior suitability for a task or role.

more adept

Stresses the skillfullness and quickness in performing tasks.

more experienced

Highlights the gained knowledge and skills over time.

more effective

Focuses on the ability to achieve desired results.

more efficient

Indicates the ability to perform tasks with minimal waste of time and resources.

more masterful

Highlights a high degree of expertise and control.

more accomplished

Emphasizes achievements and attained skills.

FAQs

How can I use "more competent" in a sentence?

Use "more competent" when comparing the abilities of two or more individuals or entities. For example, "She is "more competent" than her predecessor in managing the budget".

What are some alternatives to saying "more competent"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "more skilled", "more capable", or "better qualified" as alternatives to "more competent".

Is it better to say "competent" or "more competent"?

The choice depends on the context. "Competent" describes a satisfactory level of skill, while "more competent" implies a higher level of skill relative to something else.

What is the difference between "more competent" and "more experienced"?

"More competent" refers to a greater level of skill or ability, while "more experienced" indicates having spent a longer time doing something. One can be "more experienced" without necessarily being "more competent".