What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
inability
Example
Due to his inability to swim, he never went near the water. [inability: noun]
Example
She was unable to complete the task due to her inability to focus. [inability: noun]
incompetence
Example
The company suffered due to the incompetence of its management. [incompetence: noun]
Example
His incompetence as a driver led to several accidents. [incompetence: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Inability is more commonly used in everyday language, while incompetence is more formal and often used in professional or academic settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between inability and incompetence?
Incompetence is more formal than inability and is often used in professional or academic settings to describe a lack of ability or skill in a particular field or job.
