linguistic competence

/lɪŋˌgwɪstɪk ˌkɑmpədəns/
IPA guide

Definitions of linguistic competence
  1. noun
    (linguistics) a speaker's implicit, internalized knowledge of the rules of their language (contrasted with linguistic performance)
    see moresee less
    type of:
    competence, competency
    the quality of being adequately or well qualified physically and intellectually
Cite this entry
Style:
MLA
  • MLA
  • APA
  • Chicago

Copy citation
DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘linguistic competence'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback
Word Family