Competence that's unchanged with cap on (7)

I believe the answer is:

ability

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'competence' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

(Other definitions for ability that I've seen before include "Strength" , "Gift" , "Genius" , "Aptitude - competence" , "Skill, talent" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.

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