1. to acquire and improve skills, knowledge, and abilities in a particular area through practice and learning
Students develop competence in mathematics through regular practice and instruction.
Os alunos desenvolvem competência em matemática através da prática regular e instrução.
2. to build professional or technical proficiency in one's field of work
She worked hard to develop competence in project management.
Ela trabalhou duro para desenvolver competência em gestão de projetos.