C1 adjective

competent

Notes et astuces

Collocations courantes

competent personeel
competent team
competent zijn
competente autoriteit

Comment l'utiliser

In Dutch, 'bekwaam' is the most direct translation and is broadly applicable. 'Capabel' often emphasizes the inherent capacity or potential, while 'kundig' and 'deskundig' highlight specific knowledge or expertise, particularly in a professional context. 'Geschikt' focuses more on suitability or appropriateness for a task. The second meaning, indicating something merely satisfactory, can sometimes be conveyed with 'redelijk' or 'voldoende' in Dutch, though the English 'competent' in this sense might carry a slightly more neutral or even mildly understated positive connotation than a simple 'redelijk' might in some contexts.

Astuces

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Use in professional contexts

The word 'competent' is often used in professional settings to describe someone's ability to perform a job or task effectively. For example, 'The new employee proved to be highly competent in her role.'

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Distinguish from 'proficient'

While 'competent' and 'proficient' are synonyms, 'proficient' often implies a higher level of skill or expertise. Someone can be competent without being exceptionally proficient. For instance, 'He is competent enough to do the job, but not yet proficient.'

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Contextual usage in Dutch

In Dutch, 'competent' can also refer to being legally authorized or having jurisdiction, as in 'De rechtbank is competent in deze zaak' (The court has jurisdiction in this matter). This nuance is less common in English.

Origine du mot

From Middle French 'compétent', from Latin 'competentem' (nominative 'competens'), present participle of 'competere' ('to be suitable, to be able').

Contexte culturel

In the Netherlands, 'competent' (bekwaam or competent in Dutch) is highly valued, especially in professional and educational settings. The Dutch culture emphasizes directness and efficiency, so demonstrating competence quickly and effectively is often appreciated. There's a strong focus on practical skills and continuous learning. When someone is described as 'competent,' it often implies reliability, a thorough understanding of their field, and the ability to perform tasks independently and to a high standard. This goes hand-in-hand with the Dutch value of 'doe normaal,' which roughly translates to 'act normal' or 'be modest,' meaning that while competence is expected, excessive boasting about it is generally frowned upon. Instead, one's actions and results should speak for themselves. In a team setting, a competent individual is seen as a dependable contributor who will pull their weight.

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