inability

noun

in·​abil·​i·​ty ˌi-nə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

: lack of sufficient power, resources, or capacity

his inability to do math

Synonyms

• impotence
• inadequacy
• incapability
• incapacity
• incompetence
• incompetency
• ineptitude
• insufficiency
• powerlessness

Examples of inability in a Sentence

She has shown an inability to concentrate.

the inability of the government to cope with the problem

Recent Examples on the Web

Lindner also spoke ahead of Monday's vote, and blamed the coalition's downfall on its inability to come up with solutions to boost the country's faltering economy, which in turn alienated voters. —H.j. Mai, NPR, 16 Dec. 2024

Infertility is defined as a couple’s inability to conceive after trying for at least a year.7 Medications, assisted reproductive therapy (ART), and lifestyle modifications all play a role in treating this condition. —Mark Gurarie, Health, 14 Dec. 2024

Later, her anguish over his unjust plight—and her inability to rectify it—is both a galvanizing force and a heartrending reality. —Stephanie Zacharek, TIME, 13 Dec. 2024

Anxiety in the air Many parents in Delhi are living under anxiety fueled by their inability to escape the city due to work and other commitments. —Aishwarya S Iyer, CNN, 13 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English inhabilite disqualification, from Medieval Latin inhabilitas, from Latin in- + habilitas ability

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

inability

noun

in·​abil·​i·​ty ˌin-ə-ˈbil-ət-ē 

: lack of ability, power, or means

his inability to carry a tune