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

In February, the chain abruptly closed three of its Southern California locations, a decision Schultz attributed to an inability to come to an agreement with the landlord who controlled the master lease for the trio of theaters. — Samantha Masunaga, Los Angeles Times, 11 Nov. 2026

That is what couples need, and Pavit’s inability to recognize that is part of the problem. — Brian Moylan, Vulture, 11 Nov. 2026

Inconsistent quarterback play, along with the inability to protect and generate push up front allowed the Bulldogs and Sooners to bottled up Baugh and the running game. — Edgar Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 10 Nov. 2026

While filming, Knightley was just 17 and on set for only a week, which contributed to her inability to recall the script. — Payton Turkeltaub, Variety, 10 Nov. 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