Question

selection test (online): two kinds (lms graded)
language development: word study
identify the choice that best answers the question

the word competent means \able to do a specific job correctly.\ the word incompetent is formed by adding the latin prefix in- to the word competent. based on your knowledge of in-, choose the most likely meaning of incompetent

a. capable of doing many different jobs
b. having a set of skills that apply to various tasks
c. lacking the qualities needed to do something well
d. unable to maintain focus for long periods of time

Explanation:

The prefix "in - " often means "not" or "lack of". The word "competent" means able to do a specific job correctly. So when we add "in - " to "competent" to form "incompetent", it should mean the opposite, i.e., lacking the qualities needed to do something well. Option A and B describe positive or broad - skill - related meanings, which are not the opposite of "competent". Option D is about focus, which is not related to the meaning of "competent".

Answer:

C. lacking the qualities needed to do something well