widespread competence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "widespread competence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where a high level of skill or ability is common or prevalent among a group of people or in a particular field. Example: "The training program aimed to enhance widespread competence in digital literacy among employees across the organization."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Among junior researchers, there was widespread competence in basic epidemiological skills, but an awareness of gaps in knowledge of more advanced epidemiological skills, and the opportunities to acquire these skills were lacking.

BMC Health Services Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

A widespread definition of competences by Weinert (2001) says that competences are "cognitive abilities and skills which are available or trainable for individuals to solve specific problems as well as associated motivational, volitional and social willingness and skills to use problem solving strategies successfully and responsibly in variable situations".

Empirical Research in Vocational Education and Training

Widespread doubts about civilian competence mean there will probably be strong opposition to plans to bring the armed forces wholly under the control of the defence ministry's politicians.

The Economist

In addition, perceptions lack of social support, and low perceived confidence and competence was widespread, particularly amongst women.

BMC Public Health

The study showed poor provider-client interpersonal relations, poor technical competence of providers, widespread misconceptions among both providers and community members about the safety and risks of contraceptives, inability of many providers to speak the Mayan language of their clients, and other structural problems.

BMC International Health and Human Rights

Mr. Putin's choice of Sergei Ignatyev, 54, a deputy finance minister with a reputation for honesty, competence and pragmatism, met with widespread approval when it was announced late last week.

The New York Times

Languages for All, explains programme director Dr Emmanuelle Labeau, hopes to address the widespread complacency in the UK regarding linguistic competence.

The Guardian

The most important issue for the coming debates is whether Mr. Bush can erode the perception, widespread but only tentatively held, that Mr. Gore is a man of greater competence and command.

The New York Times

"If you are running a business of [this size], you should have the competence to understand the principles [of the hedge]." Just how widespread is this problem?

BBC

The interprofessional module had to be organised based on competence according to the Bologna Declaration of 19 June 1999 so that widespread student mobility could be promoted.

BMC Medical Education

Genetic competence, defined as a state that permits the uptake of exogenous DNA, is widespread among both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.

BMC Genomics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "widespread competence", ensure you specify the area or skill in which the competence is prevalent (e.g., "widespread competence in data analysis").

Common error

Avoid using "widespread competence" when referring to a skill that is only possessed by a select few. Overstating the prevalence can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "widespread competence" functions as a noun phrase where "widespread" modifies the noun "competence". Ludwig indicates its usability in describing a common or prevalent high level of skill or ability.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "widespread competence" is a phrase used to describe a situation where a high level of skill or ability is common. While the phrase itself is grammatically sound and usable, as noted by Ludwig, its occurrence is relatively rare. It's important to use it accurately, ensuring that the competence is genuinely prevalent in the context you're describing. Ludwig's analysis, supported by examples from sources like The New York Times and The Guardian, suggests that this phrase is most frequently encountered in scientific and news-related contexts. When aiming for clarity and impact, consider alternative phrases like "broad proficiency" or "common skillset" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

broad proficiency

Focuses on a general level of skill rather than just competence.

prevalent ability

Focuses on the common occurrence of a general ability.

extensive expertise

Highlights specialized knowledge being widespread.

common skillset

Emphasizes a shared set of skills among individuals.

overall competence

Implies a general or average level of competence across a group.

general capability

Highlights a general ability rather than a specific competence.

generalized skill

Suggests a general skill applicable to various tasks, rather than a specific competence.

pervasive aptitude

Suggests a natural talent is common, rather than learned competence.

universal mastery

Implies complete control or understanding is widespread, which is a stronger claim.

rampant skill

Suggests an uncontrolled or excessive spread of skill, carrying a potentially negative connotation.

FAQs

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

You can use "widespread competence" to describe a situation where a high level of skill or ability is common, such as "There is "widespread competence" in basic programming among the students."

What are some alternatives to "widespread competence"?

Some alternatives include "broad proficiency", "extensive expertise", or "common skillset", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "widespread skill" or "widespread competence"?

Both "widespread skill" and "widespread competence" are acceptable, but "widespread competence" often implies a demonstrated ability to perform tasks effectively, whereas "widespread skill" can refer to a more general aptitude.

What does it mean when there is "widespread competence" in a specific area?

It signifies that a significant portion of individuals possesses a high degree of skill and ability in that particular field, indicating a strong overall capability within the group.