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

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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

Example 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 The end product is almost chemically inert and the radioactive material is dispersed throughout the glass, reducing the amount of radiation emitted. —

David Szondy, New Atlas, 28 Dec. 2024 After the mission, the second stage will be made inert and remain in space as orbital debris. —

Richard Tribou Orlando Sentinel (tns), arkansasonline.com, 13 Jan. 2025 Once the skip at the reception area is full, the waste is emptied into the landfill, where it is then covered with inert material to minimise the release of gases or liquids and then compacted. —

Ars Technica, 10 Jan. 2025 Originally supposed to fly Sierra Space Dream Chaser test flight, but payload switched to an inert mass simulator because of potential Dream Chaser delays beyond October launch date. —

Richard Tribou, Orlando Sentinel, 10 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for inert

Recent Examples of Synonyms for inert

Adjective

Wait for the fig plant to go dormant before moving it indoors.

— Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 12 Feb. 2025
Listen to this article During his dormant rookie season, Jalen Pickett occasionally played one-on-one against Jamal Murray.

— Bennett Durando, The Denver Post, 11 Feb. 2025