What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unproficient
Example
I am unproficient in playing the guitar. [unproficient: adjective]
Example
She is still unproficient in speaking Spanish, but she's taking classes to improve. [unproficient: adjective]
incompetent
Example
The doctor was incompetent and misdiagnosed my illness. [incompetent: adjective]
Example
The company had to fire the incompetent employee for repeatedly making errors. [incompetent: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Incompetent is more commonly used than unproficient in everyday language. Incompetent is a stronger word with a more negative connotation, and it is often used in professional or formal contexts to describe someone who is unable to perform their job effectively.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between unproficient and incompetent?
Incompetent is a more formal word than unproficient, and it is often used in professional or legal contexts to describe someone who is unable to perform their job effectively. Unproficient is a less formal word that is more commonly used in casual conversation or informal writing.
