qualification

noun

qual·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌkwä-lə-fə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce qualification (audio)
1
: a restriction in meaning or application : a limiting modification
this statement stands without qualification
2
a
obsolete : nature
b
archaic : characteristic
3
a
: a quality or skill that fits a person (as for an office)
the applicant with the best qualifications
b
: a condition or standard that must be complied with (as for the attainment of a privilege)
a qualification for membership

Examples of qualification in a Sentence

She is finishing up her qualification in marketing. He is studying for his teaching qualification. Students working towards their qualifications.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
At the core of Villanueva’s challenge was the argument that how Kansas seats jurors in death penalty cases – a process called death qualification – skews capital trials. Jonathan Shorman, Kansas City Star, 17 Apr. 2025 Long, a former congressman from Missouri, has faced questions about his qualifications. Graham Kates, CBS News, 16 Apr. 2025 There are a few qualifications to receive the refund, according to the Georgia Department of Revenue. Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 Apr. 2025 Led by perfect ten machine Helen Hu, the Tigers’ qualification to Fort Worth marks just their fourth in program history. Caroline Price, Forbes.com, 16 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for qualification

Word History

First Known Use

1538, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of qualification was in 1538

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Cite this Entry

“Qualification.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/qualification. Accessed 24 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

qualification

noun
qual·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌkwäl-ə-fə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce qualification (audio)
1
: the act or an instance of qualifying
2
: the state of being qualified
3
a
: a special skill, knowledge, or ability that fits a person for a particular work or position
b
: a condition that must be met (as to gain a privilege)

More from Merriam-Webster on qualification

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