Qualify

Definition

The verb "qualify" means to meet the necessary requirements or standards for something, to modify or limit the meaning of a statement, or to make someone or something suitable for a specific purpose or role.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkwɑː.lə.faɪ/
• Respelling: KWAH-luh-fy

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkwɒ.lɪ.faɪ/
• Respelling: KWO-luh-fy

Etymology

The word "qualify" originates from the Latin "qualificare," meaning "to make of a certain quality," derived from "qualis" (of what kind) and "facere" (to make). It entered Middle English via Old French "qualifier" with similar meanings.

Derivatives

• Qualification (noun)
• Qualified (adjective)
• Qualifier (noun)
• Requalify (verb)
• Qualifying (verb/participle)

Synonyms

• Certify
• Authorize
• Modify

Antonyms

• Disqualify
• Invalidate
• Reject

Usage

The verb "qualify" is often used in professional, academic, and conversational contexts. For example: "He hopes to qualify for the finals," or "You need to qualify your statement to avoid misunderstandings."

Related Terms

• Eligibility: The state of meeting the requirements to participate.
• Certification: A formal acknowledgment of qualification.
• Standard: A level of quality or attainment required.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To meet the requirements or criteria for something: Refers to fulfilling the necessary standards or conditions.
  • Example: "She managed to qualify for the scholarship program."
• To make someone or something suitable for a role or purpose: Refers to preparing or certifying someone for a specific task or responsibility.
  • Example: "The training program will qualify you to work as a technician."
• To modify or limit a statement: Refers to adding conditions or clarifications to a claim or assertion.
  • Example: "You should qualify your argument to avoid ambiguity."