qual|i|fy

qual|i|fy «KWOL uh fy», verb, -fied, -fy|ing.

–v.t.

1. to make fit or competent: »

Can you qualify yourself for the job?

SYNONYM(S): prepare, equip.

2. to furnish with legal power; make legally capable: »

No one but a landholder was qualified to be elected into that body (George Bancroft).

3. to make less strong; change somewhat; limit; modify: »

Qualify your statement that dogs are loyal by adding “usually.”

SYNONYM(S): moderate, temper, adapt.

4. to characterize by attributing some quality to; give a descriptive name to: »

The “Devil's drawing-room,” As some have qualified that wondrous place (Byron).

5. Grammar. to limit or modify the meaning of: »

Adverbs qualify verbs.

6. to modify the strength or flavor of (a liquid): »

Tea which he drank…qualified with brandy (Tobias Smollett).

–v.i.

1. to become fit; show oneself fit: »

Can you qualify for the Boy Scouts?

2. to become legally capable: »

to qualify as a voter.

3. to gain the right to compete in a race, contest, or tournament.

╂[< Medieval Latin qualifice < Latin quālis of what sort + facere to make]

–qual´i|fy´ing|ly, adverb.