# competently

/ˈkɑmpətɪntɫi/ (US) · /kˈɒmpɪtəntli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/competently
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

in a good and skilled way, well enough to do a job right. You use it when someone can do something without needing help.

For teachers: with adequate skill or ability to perform a task to an acceptable standard. Implies sufficient rather than exceptional proficiency.

## Examples

- She competently handles all customer complaints at work.
- The new nurse competently manages the busy ward, checking medications and calming worried patients.
- Although hired without prior leadership experience, she competently guided the team through restructuring while maintaining morale and meeting tight deadlines.

## Synonyms

ably, well, skillfully, adequately, capably

## Antonyms

inadequately, poorly, badly, incompetently

## Usage notes

- Typically placed after the verb it modifies or before a past participle ('competently managed').

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.