INERT Synonyms: 102 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'inert' different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of inert are idle , inactive , passive , and supine . While all these words mean "not engaged in work or activity," inert as applied to things implies powerlessness to move or to affect other things; as applied to persons it suggests an inherent or habitual indisposition to activity. // inert ingredients in drugs // an inert citizenry

Q: When would 'idle' be a good substitute for 'inert'?

The words idle and inert can be used in similar contexts, but idle applies to persons that are not busy or occupied or to their powers or their implements. // workers were idle in the fields

Q: In what contexts can 'inactive' take the place of 'inert'?

While in some cases nearly identical to inert , inactive applies to anyone or anything not in action or in operation or at work. // on inactive status as an astronaut // inactive accounts

Q: When can 'passive' be used instead of 'inert'?

The words passive and inert are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, passive implies immobility or lack of normally expected response to an external force or influence and often suggests deliberate submissiveness or self-control. // passive resistance

Q: When could 'supine' be used to replace 'inert'?

While the synonyms supine and inert are close in meaning, supine applies only to persons and commonly implies abjectness or indolence. // a supine willingness to play the fool

inert

adjective

i-ˈnərt

Definition of inert next

as in dormant

not being in a state of use, activity, or employment the inert, abandoned factories that are scattered all over that dying city

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in sleepy

slow to move or act a sleepy, inert reptile that is no threat to people when left alone

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word inert different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of inert are idle, inactive, passive, and supine. While all these words mean "not engaged in work or activity," inert as applied to things implies powerlessness to move or to affect other things; as applied to persons it suggests an inherent or habitual indisposition to activity.

inert ingredients in drugs

an inert citizenry

When would idle be a good substitute for inert?

The words idle and inert can be used in similar contexts, but idle applies to persons that are not busy or occupied or to their powers or their implements.

workers were idle in the fields

In what contexts can inactive take the place of inert?

While in some cases nearly identical to inert, inactive applies to anyone or anything not in action or in operation or at work.

on inactive status as an astronaut

inactive accounts

When can passive be used instead of inert?

The words passive and inert are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, passive implies immobility or lack of normally expected response to an external force or influence and often suggests deliberate submissiveness or self-control.

passive resistance

When could supine be used to replace inert?

While the synonyms supine and inert are close in meaning, supine applies only to persons and commonly implies abjectness or indolence.

a supine willingness to play the fool

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of inert Hong Kong itself — so often a palpable and intoxicating environment on screen — is almost completely inert, as though the city has already been evacuated and there is nothing left to save. —

James Marsh, Deadline, 1 Nov. 2024 According to the study, 5 million tons of inert diamond dust could potentially cool the planet by almost 1.6 degrees Celsius in 45 years. —

Devika Rao, theweek, 12 Nov. 2024 The 202-foot tall Vulcan rocket lifted off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station at 7:25 a.m. EDT Friday morning, carrying an inert payload into space on a mission that, if successful, would qualify the rocket to carry payloads for national security missions. —

Max Hauptman, USA TODAY, 4 Oct. 2024 So inert citizens contribute to a balanced civic sphere that allows government to get things done. —

David Faris, Newsweek, 4 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for inert

Recent Examples of Synonyms for inert

Adjective

The conflict in Syria had remained deadly but largely dormant over the past several years, defined by low-level clashes between the rebels and Assad’s regime rather than dramatic changes in territory and control.

Rob Picheta, CNN, 9 Dec. 2024
But what about later in the season, when plants are going dormant and nature is usually more generous with the waterworks?

Luke Miller, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Dec. 2024