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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
reach competence
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "reach competence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the process of achieving a certain level of skill or proficiency in a particular area or field. Example: "After months of training, the team was finally able to reach competence in the new software system."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Formal & Business
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
5 human-written examples
LC-Cusum analysis (with p0=0.10, p1=0.20) defined trainees as competent or yet to reach competence, according to whether the upper control limit was crossed or not.
Science
For example, bacteria have been observed to reach competence (i.e. obtain the ability to kill their non-competent siblings) in rich medium in vitro in early logarithmic growth, which is not seen in vivo, where nutrients are generally limited [ 41, 42].
Science
Our learning rate estimates are consistent with the "European Society of Intensive Care Medicine" recommendations of approximately 30 TTEs in ICU patients to reach competence in basic critical care echocardiography [2].
Science
The nature of integrated assessment adds challenge to measuring communication as an isolated 'fail' criterion, but some schools were able to report that failing to reach competence in this category could – and would – hinder progression.
Science
Dreyfus [ 9] notes that when people learn a skill, in order to reach competence, they need to learn to devise a plan or perspective that determines which of the elements of the skill must be treated as important and those that can be ignored.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
55 human-written examples
For the first time, our study shows that a focused training program in ICU setting allows to reach competences using Doppler capabilities.
Science
To evaluate the diagnostic performances of two training programs for residents with no prior ultrasound experience to reach competences in extended basic critical care transthoracic echocardiography (CCE) including Doppler capabilities.
Science
Reaching competence is attainable, without extensive formal radiology training for diagnostic TCD.
Science
Forty percent of the country's 15-year olds are unable to reach basic competence in mathematic literacy (pdf).
News & Media
Despite the amount of work and the potential ability to reach vocational competence within the project, the observations show that the students have low motivation to engage in upcoming tasks, as a result of not only task complexity but also poor coordination between involved.
In their perceptions of the clinical expert, the participants in this study saw this nurse as similar to that proposed by Thornley [ 32], that is, as a role model who encourages, inspires and assists others to reach clinical competence.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "reach competence", specify the area of competence to provide context and clarity. For example, "reach competence in data analysis" is more informative than simply "reach competence".
Common error
Avoid using "reach competence" when referring to basic skills. The phrase implies a significant level of proficiency, so it's more appropriate for advanced or specialized abilities.
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.2/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "reach competence" functions as a verb phrase indicating the achievement of a specific level of skill or ability. As Ludwig confirms, this phrase is suitable for use in written English.
Frequent in
Science
60%
News & Media
20%
Formal & Business
20%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Social Media
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "reach competence" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that describes the attainment of a certain skill level. While not exceedingly common, its use is appropriate across various contexts, particularly in science, news, and formal communications. Ludwig confirms the validity of this phrase. Consider alternatives like "attain competence" or "achieve competence" for variety. Use it judiciously to describe a significant level of proficiency, and always clarify the specific area of competence for maximum impact.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
attain competence
Replaces "reach" with a more formal synonym, maintaining the same meaning.
achieve competence
Uses a more common verb to convey the idea of gaining competence.
gain competence
Emphasizes the acquisition of competence.
develop competence
Focuses on the process of building competence over time.
acquire competence
Similar to "gain competence" but may suggest a more structured or formal process.
become competent
Shifts the focus to the state of being competent.
master a skill
More specific, implying a high level of competence in a particular skill.
attain proficiency
Substitutes "competence" with "proficiency", emphasizing a high degree of skill.
achieve mastery
Conveys a very high level of skill and understanding.
reach a proficient level
Rephrases the idea to focus on achieving a specific level of proficiency.
FAQs
What does "reach competence" mean?
The phrase "reach competence" signifies attaining a satisfactory level of skill or ability in a particular area. It suggests a process of learning and development leading to a demonstrable level of proficiency.
How can I use "reach competence" in a sentence?
You can use "reach competence" to describe the process of someone becoming skilled. For example: "After completing the training program, the employees were able to "reach competence" in using the new software."
Which is a better phrase, "achieve competence" or "reach competence"?
Both "achieve competence" and ""reach competence"" are acceptable. "Achieve" is slightly more common, but "reach" can add a sense of progression and attainment to the phrase.
What are some alternatives to "reach competence"?
Alternatives to "reach competence" include "attain competence", "gain competence", or "develop competence", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.2/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested