incompétents

Incompétents is the plural form of the French adjective incompétent and is used as a noun or adjective to describe people who lack the necessary knowledge, skills, or judgment to perform a task or hold a position. The term is commonly used in critical or polemical contexts and is often considered pejorative, reflecting a judgment about capability rather than a neutral assessment.

Etymology and forms: The word combines the prefix in- (not) with compétent (capable), itself from Latin competens. In French, the masculine plural is incompétents; the feminine singular is incompétente, and the feminine plural is incompétentes, while the masculine singular is incompétent. The term is widely understood in Francophone contexts, though it carries strong evaluative connotations.

Usage and implications: In everyday language, it labels deficits in performance or capability. In professional settings, more precise language—such as insufficient qualifications, lack of training, or poor judgment—may be preferred to avoid sweeping generalizations. Because competence is highly context-dependent, claims of incompetence can reflect standards, expectations, or power dynamics as much as actual ability.

See also: Related concepts include competence, incompetence, and the idea of professional ability. The term appears in French-language journalism, politics, and social commentary as a blunt critique of leadership, administration, or decision-making. As with any label, careful use is advised to avoid unfairly stigmatizing individuals or groups.

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