inability

noun

in·​abil·​i·​ty ˌi-nə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

: lack of sufficient power, resources, or capacity

my inability to do math

Synonyms of inability

• incapability
• insufficiency
• incompetence
• incompetency

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

This move follows a successful loan spell at Monaco and his inability to impress new coach Hansi Flick. — Tom Sanderson, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026

The ripple effect of food insecurity around the world from Ukraine’s inability to ship its normally massive grain crops. — Jan Ellen Spiegel, Hartford Courant, 29 June 2026

While there are some drawbacks compared to traditional investments — such as its inability to earn dividends — there are several ways to add gold to your portfolio. — Liz Knueven, CNBC, 29 June 2026

Davies had not played for Canada since March 2025, and his inability to feature at this World Cup, until now, has been a major theme. — Laurie Whitwell, New York Times, 28 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1500, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for inability

• affability
• audibility
• bistability
• capability
• changeability
• contractility
• credibility
• culpability
• disability
• disutility
• durability
• fallibility

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