Learn how to use the comparative “less competent” and superlative “least competent” with example sentences and differences.

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

Comparative adjectives help us to describe how good or bad something is when compared to something else. For example, something is taller than something else. Superlative adjectives help us to describe something as having the most or least of a particular characteristic within a group. This makes it easier and more accurate to talk about and compare things.

What is the comparative form of “noncompetent”?

The comparative form of “noncompetent” is “less competent”.

Example

She is less competent than her colleague.

Example

The second candidate was less competent than the first.

What is the superlative form of “noncompetent”?

The superlative form of “noncompetent” is “least competent”.

Example

Among all the candidates, she is the least competent.

Example

He is considered the least competent member of the team.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

"Most" and "more" are not used with "competent," "less competent," and "least competent." Instead, "less competent" and "least competent" are the appropriate comparatives and superlatives for "competent." Using "most competent" or "more competent" would be grammatically incorrect.

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

"Competent" follows the regular pattern for forming comparatives and superlatives: - Comparative form: Competent → Less competent - Superlative form: Competent → Least competent

Expressions with similar meanings to “less competent”

Used to describe someone or something of lower quality or ability.

Example

His work was clearly inferior to that of his peers.

Used to indicate that someone or something is not sufficient or capable enough.

Example

The team's performance was inadequate for the task at hand.

Used to describe something that falls below the expected or required standard.

Example

The product's quality was substandard compared to others in the market.

Expressions with similar meanings to “least competent”

Used to describe someone or something of the lowest quality or ability.

Example

His performance was the worst among all the participants.

Used to indicate the lowest level or degree of quality or ability.

Example

The company's customer satisfaction rating is the lowest in the industry.

Using than with comparative “less competent”

When using the comparative form "less competent" to compare two people or things, you would use "than" to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "She is less competent than her colleague." Here, "than" is used to show that her level of competence is lower than that of her colleague.

How can I use this expression in context?

“less competent” and “least competent” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Workplace

    The new employee is less competent than the experienced ones.

    The new employee is less competent than the experienced ones.

  • 2Skills

    He is the least competent when it comes to problem-solving.

    He is the least competent when it comes to problem-solving.

  • 3Performance

    Her presentation was less competent compared to others.

    Her presentation was less competent compared to others.

  • 4Evaluation

    He received the worst evaluation due to being the least competent.

    He received the worst evaluation due to being the least competent.

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