What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
incapable
Example
She is incapable of speaking French fluently. [incapable: adjective]
Example
It is incapable of being repaired. [incapable: adjective]
Example
He proved himself incapable of managing the team effectively. [incapable: adjective]
incompetent
Example
The company fired the incompetent employee. [incompetent: adjective]
Example
He was deemed incompetent to stand trial. [incompetent: adjective]
Example
The manager's incompetence led to the company's downfall. [incompetence: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Incompetent is more commonly used than incapable in everyday language, particularly in professional or work-related situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between incapable and incompetent?
Both incapable and incompetent can be used in formal or informal contexts. However, incompetent is more commonly used in professional or work-related situations and may be considered more formal than incapable.
