Competence vs competency: two words that are often used interchangeably, but are they really the same thing? In this article, we’ll explore the differences between these two words and when to use each one.
Let’s clarify the proper word to use. Actually, both competence and competency are acceptable, but they are used in slightly different contexts. Competence is more commonly used in British English, while competency is more commonly used in American English.
Now, let’s define each word. Competence refers to the ability to do something well or efficiently. It implies a level of skill or knowledge that allows a person to perform a task or job successfully. On the other hand, competency refers to the set of skills or knowledge required to perform a task or job successfully. It is more focused on the specific requirements and standards of a particular job or task.
So, while competence is more about the individual’s ability, competency is more about the requirements of the task or job. Understanding the difference between these two words is important in order to communicate effectively in professional settings.
In the following sections, we’ll delve deeper into the nuances of competence and competency, and explore how they are used in different contexts.
Define Competence
Competence refers to the ability to perform a task or job to a satisfactory level. It encompasses a combination of knowledge, skills, and experience that enable an individual to carry out their responsibilities effectively. Competence is often used in the context of a specific job or field, and it can be measured against a set of standards or criteria.
For example, a competent accountant would have the necessary knowledge of accounting principles, the skills to prepare financial statements accurately, and the experience to apply their knowledge and skills in a practical setting. A competent doctor would have the knowledge of medical science, the skills to diagnose and treat illnesses, and the experience to make sound medical decisions.
Define Competency
Competency refers to the underlying characteristics or traits that enable an individual to perform a task or job effectively. It encompasses a combination of personal attributes, such as attitudes, values, and behaviors, that contribute to an individual’s success in their role. Competency is often used in the context of a broader set of skills or abilities that are required to succeed in a particular field or profession.
For example, a competent accountant may possess the competency of attention to detail, which allows them to identify errors and discrepancies in financial statements. A competent doctor may possess the competency of empathy, which enables them to connect with patients and provide compassionate care.
| Competence | Competency |
|---|---|
| Ability to perform a task or job to a satisfactory level | Underlying characteristics or traits that enable an individual to perform a task or job effectively |
| Measured against a set of standards or criteria | Contributes to an individual’s success in their role |
| Includes knowledge, skills, and experience | Includes personal attributes such as attitudes, values, and behaviors |
How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence
Using the words “competence” and “competency” correctly can be confusing, especially since they are often used interchangeably. However, there is a subtle difference between the two words that can impact the meaning of a sentence. Here’s how to use them properly:
How To Use “Competence” In A Sentence
“Competence” is a noun that refers to the ability to do something well. It can be used in a sentence as follows:
- She demonstrated her competence in the field by completing the project ahead of schedule.
- The company’s success is a result of the employees’ competence and hard work.
- He lacked the competence to perform the task, so he asked for help.
Notice that “competence” is used to describe a person’s or a group’s ability to perform a task or achieve a goal. It is often used in professional or academic settings to describe a level of expertise or proficiency.
How To Use “Competency” In A Sentence
“Competency” is also a noun, but it refers to the specific skills or knowledge required to perform a task. It can be used in a sentence like this:
- The job description listed the required competencies for the position.
- She completed the training program to improve her competencies in the field.
- The assessment measured the employees’ competencies in various areas.
Notice that “competency” is used to describe the specific skills or knowledge that are necessary for a task or job. It is often used in HR or job-related contexts to describe the qualifications or requirements for a position.
Overall, understanding the difference between “competence” and “competency” can help you communicate more clearly and precisely in professional and academic settings.
More Examples Of Competence & Competency Used In Sentences
In order to further understand the difference between competence and competency, it is helpful to see how they are used in sentences. Here are some examples:
Examples Of Using Competence In A Sentence
- Her competence in the field of medicine is unparalleled.
- The company is looking for employees who have demonstrated competence in leadership.
- He was hired for his competence in computer programming.
- She has proven her competence as a public speaker.
- His competence as a chef is evident in the quality of his dishes.
- The team’s competence in handling difficult situations was put to the test during the crisis.
- The job requires a high level of competence in written communication.
- She was praised for her competence in managing the project.
- His competence in the language allowed him to easily communicate with the locals.
- The athlete’s competence in the sport earned him many accolades.
Examples Of Using Competency In A Sentence
- The job posting listed several competencies required for the position.
- The competency of the team was evaluated during the performance review.
- She is working to improve her competency in the field of marketing.
- The competency test was designed to assess the skills of the candidates.
- His competency in the use of the software was impressive.
- The competency framework outlines the skills and knowledge required for the job.
- She was hired for her competency in project management.
- The competency-based approach to training focuses on developing specific skills.
- His competency in problem-solving was crucial to the success of the project.
- The competency model is used to identify the skills needed for different roles within the organization.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
One of the most common mistakes people make when it comes to the usage of competence and competency is using these words interchangeably. However, these two words have different meanings and should be used appropriately to convey the intended message. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
Using Competence And Competency Interchangeably
Competence and competency are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same. Competence refers to the ability to do something well, while competency refers to the skills, knowledge, and abilities required to perform a particular job or task.
For instance, if you say, “John has the competence to perform the job,” it means that John has the ability to do the job well. On the other hand, if you say, “John has the competency to perform the job,” it means that John has the necessary skills, knowledge, and abilities to perform the job.
Using Competence As An Adjective
Another common mistake is using competence as an adjective to describe a person or thing. Competence is a noun, and it should be used as such. For example, you should say, “John has competence in project management,” instead of “John is a competent project manager.”
Using Competency As A Plural Noun
Some people make the mistake of using competency as a plural noun. Competency is a singular noun, and its plural form is competencies. For example, you should say, “The competencies required for this job are…” instead of “The competencies required for this job is…”.
Offer Tips On How To Avoid Making These Mistakes In The Future
To avoid making these mistakes, it is essential to understand the difference between competence and competency. One way to do this is to look up their definitions and usage in a dictionary. Additionally, it is helpful to proofread your writing carefully and ask someone to review it for you. By doing so, you can ensure that you are using these words correctly and conveying your message clearly.
Context Matters
When it comes to discussing skills and abilities, the terms competence and competency are often used interchangeably. However, the choice between the two can depend heavily on the context in which they are used.
Competence Vs Competency
Competence refers to the ability to perform a task or job to a satisfactory level. It is often used in a general sense to describe a person’s overall ability or proficiency in a particular area.
On the other hand, competency refers to a specific set of skills or knowledge that are required for a particular role or task. It is often used in a more specific sense to describe the skills or knowledge required for a particular job or task.
Examples Of Different Contexts
One example of a context in which the choice between competence and competency might change is in a job interview. In this context, an employer might ask a candidate about their competencies in order to determine whether they have the specific skills or knowledge required for the job. Alternatively, an employer might ask about a candidate’s overall competence in order to determine whether they have the ability to perform well in a variety of different tasks or situations.
Another example of a context in which the choice between competence and competency might change is in a training program. In this context, trainers might focus on developing the specific competencies that are required for a particular job or task. Alternatively, trainers might focus on developing a person’s overall competence in order to prepare them for a variety of different tasks or situations.
Ultimately, the choice between competence and competency can depend on the context in which they are used. While competence refers to a general ability to perform well, competency refers to a specific set of skills or knowledge required for a particular job or task. By understanding the differences between these two terms, individuals can better communicate their skills and abilities in a variety of different contexts.
Exceptions To The Rules
While the general rules for using competence and competency are straightforward, there are some exceptions to keep in mind. These exceptions are important to note as they can affect the meaning of a sentence or phrase.
Exception 1: Legal Terminology
In legal terminology, the use of competence and competency can vary depending on the context. In some cases, the terms may be used interchangeably, while in others, one term may be preferred over the other.
For example, in the context of a legal proceeding, the term competence may be used to refer to a person’s mental capacity or ability to make decisions. On the other hand, in the context of a job description for a legal position, the term competency may be used to describe the skills and knowledge required for the job.
Exception 2: Technical Jargon
In technical jargon, the use of competence and competency can also vary depending on the field or industry. For example, in the field of psychology, the term competence may be used to refer to a therapist’s ability to provide effective treatment, while the term competency may be used to describe a client’s ability to understand and participate in the therapy process.
Similarly, in the field of information technology, the term competence may be used to describe a person’s ability to use a particular software or technology, while the term competency may be used to describe a person’s ability to design or develop software or technology.
Exception 3: Regional Differences
Finally, it’s important to note that the use of competence and competency can also vary depending on regional differences in language and usage. For example, in British English, the term competence is generally preferred over competency, while in American English, the two terms are used interchangeably.
It’s important to keep these exceptions in mind when using competence and competency to ensure that the intended meaning is clear and accurate.
Practice Exercises
Practice makes perfect, and the same goes for understanding the difference between competence and competency. Here are some exercises to help readers improve their understanding and use of these two terms in sentences:
Exercise 1: Fill In The Blank
Complete the following sentences with the correct form of competence or competency:
- She has demonstrated a high level of __________ in her job.
- The new employee needs to develop his __________ in this area.
- Our company values employees who show __________ in their work.
- It takes years of training to achieve __________ in this field.
- His lack of __________ was evident during the presentation.
Answer Key:
- competence
- competency
- competence
- competency
- competence
Exercise 2: Multiple Choice
Choose the correct term to complete the following sentences:
- __________ is the ability to do something successfully or efficiently.
- a. Competence
- b. Competency
- a. Competence
- b. Competency
- a. Competence
- b. Competency
Answer Key:
- a. Competence
- b. Competency
- a. Competence
By practicing these exercises, readers can improve their understanding and use of competence and competency in their writing and communication. Remember to use the correct term depending on the context and meaning intended.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the difference between competence and competency is crucial for effective communication. Competence refers to the ability to do something well, while competency refers to the knowledge and skills required to perform a task.
It is important to note that while these terms are often used interchangeably, they have distinct meanings that can impact how we communicate in professional settings.
By recognizing the nuances between these two terms, we can improve our ability to articulate our own skills and qualifications, as well as better understand the qualifications of others.
Key Takeaways
- Competence refers to the ability to do something well, while competency refers to the knowledge and skills required to perform a task.
- Understanding the difference between these terms can improve communication in professional settings.
- Recognizing the nuances between these terms can help us better articulate our own skills and qualifications, as well as understand the qualifications of others.
Overall, continuing to learn about grammar and language use can help us become more confident and effective communicators. Whether we are writing emails, reports, or presentations, having a strong grasp of language and grammar can help us convey our ideas clearly and persuasively.
So, let us continue to expand our knowledge and refine our skills in these areas, and see the positive impact it can have on our professional lives.
Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.