# ineptitude

/ˌɪˈnɛptɪˌtud/ (US) · /ɪnˈɛptɪtjˌuːd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ineptitude
Updated: 2026-05-31

## Definition

a lack of skill or ability to do something well. It describes someone who is clumsy or makes many mistakes because they are not good at their job.

For teachers: a lack of skill, ability, or competence in performing a task. Often implies a failure to meet basic professional or functional standards.

## Examples

- The project failed because of the manager's total ineptitude.
- The company's recent financial losses were attributed to the ineptitude of the board of directors.
- While the technical specifications of the software were sound, the user interface was a clear example of administrative ineptitude, leading to widespread frustration among the staff.

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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.