This paper proposes a dispositional conceptualization of communicative competence (explaining an individual's cross-contextual performance) that complements the situational approach which assumes competence is context-bound. Dispositional communicative competence is defined as a function of three dimensions (cognitive, affective, and behavioral) that must operate in tandem to produce personally satisfying outcomes across a majority of social interactions. The three general dimensions of dispositional competence are discussed in the paper and definitions proposed for each. Further, the relationship between situational and dispositional competence is articulated as well as the interrelationships among the three dimensions of competence. Finally, future research is discussed that is designed to test the major assumptions of this approach to communicative competence. (Thirty-six references are attached.) (RS)