qualify

/ˌkwɑləˈfaɪ/

/ˈkwɒlɪfaɪ/

Other forms: qualified; qualifying; qualifies

Make sure you know the context when using the word qualify. In one sense, it means to be right for, to measure up. In another sense, though, qualify means to change something slightly, to limit it or add a condition to it.

If you want to qualify for your driver's license, remember not to drive through that final stop sign without stopping. I guarantee you that if you don't stop you will not qualify. You don't just get your Eagle Badge. You have to qualify for it—there's a lot to do before you get it. The word might be used in its other sense like this: If you plan to get married, keep your vows simple: say "I do." Don't qualify them by saying something like "I do...except sometimes, when I don't." If you have to qualify your wedding vows, don't get married.

Definitions of qualify

1. verb

   prove capable or fit; meet requirements
   synonyms: measure up

   type of:

   answer, do, serve, suffice

   be sufficient; be adequate, either in quality or quantity
2. verb

   make fit or prepared
   “Your education qualifies you for this job”

   synonyms: dispose

   antonyms:

   disqualify

   make unfit or unsuitable

   types:

   habilitate

   qualify for teaching at a university in Europe

   capacitate

   make capable

   type of:

   groom, prepare, train

   educate for a future role or function
3. verb

   pronounce fit or able
   “She was qualified to run the marathon”

   antonyms:

   disqualify

   declare unfit

   types:

   capacitate

   make legally capable or qualify in law

   type of:

   judge, label, pronounce

   pronounce judgment on
4. verb

   make more specific
   “qualify these remarks”

   synonyms: restrict

   type of:

   modify

   make less severe or harsh or extreme
5. verb

   add a modifier to a constituent
   synonyms: modify

   type of:

   add

   make an addition (to); join or combine or unite with others; increase the quality, quantity, size or scope of
6. verb

   specify as a condition or requirement in a contract or agreement; make an express demand or provision in an agreement
   synonyms: condition, specify, stipulate

   stipulate

   give a guarantee or promise of

   types:

   provide

   determine (what is to happen in certain contingencies), especially by including a proviso condition or stipulation

   type of:

   contract, undertake

   enter into a contractual arrangement
7. verb

   describe or portray the character or the qualities or peculiarities of
   synonyms: characterise, characterize

   types:

   differentiate, distinguish, mark

   be a distinctive feature, attribute, or trait; sometimes in a very positive sense

   stamp

   reveal clearly as having a certain character

   characterise, characterize

   be characteristic of

   type of:

   remember, think of

   keep in mind for attention or consideration