Eligibility
ˌelɪdʒɪˈbɪləti
Definitions
The quality or state of being qualified to do or receive something; having the right to something.
ˌelɪdʒɪˈbɪləti
The state of being qualified or entitled to something.
The eligibility requirements for the competition were clearly stated.
💡 Simply: It's like when you're checking if you're good enough to join a club or get a special prize. For example, to play in the school basketball game, you need to meet the rules of eligibility—like having good grades.
👶 For kids: Being able to do something because you have the right rules.
More Examples
She verified the student's eligibility for financial aid.
The company had to prove the eligibility of its employees to receive the benefits.
How It's Used
"Determining a candidate's eligibility for public office."
"Assessing a client's eligibility for a loan."
"Checking a student's eligibility for a scholarship."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
From Middle French *éligibilité*, from *éligible* ('eligible'), from Latin *ēligere* ('to choose, select').
The word 'eligibility' has been used in English since the early 17th century, originally referring to the quality or state of being fit or suitable.
Memory tip
Think of 'eligible' as the adjective; 'eligibility' is the *state* of being able to 'choose' (Latin root) or be 'chosen'.
Word Origin
"ēligere (to choose or select)"