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

Sometimes, the cop even pokes fun at the suspect’s inability to sprint, calling them out for being out of shape. —Dani Di Placido, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024

Navarro grew anxious over her inability to help support her family. —Anjeanette Damon, ProPublica, 4 Nov. 2024

In Katie’s mind, their accident—Steve’s inability to keep the boat off that rock—had ruined everyone’s trip. —Outside Online, 30 Oct. 2024

For those still worried about the Bruins’ 72-67 loss to San Diego State — which was missing five scholarship players, including its starting backcourt — the lingering concerns would be rebounding and an inability to convert turnovers into points. —Ben Bolch, Los Angeles Times, 29 Oct. 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