inability
noun
in·abil·i·ty
ˌi-nə-ˈbi-lə-tē 
: lack of sufficient power, resources, or capacity
his inability to do math
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
Boos rained down much of the evening, with frustration directed at the referees and the Checkers’ inability to convert on their powerplay opportunities.
—
Hunter Bailey, Charlotte Observer, 24 June 2025
Our inability to record these sweltering spells in a more conspicuous way is shared by the natural world, which rarely shows the marks of an episode of hot weather in any lasting way.
—Ross Andersen, The Atlantic, 24 June 2025
Her recommendation is not to fight or try to control their inability to sit still and be quiet.
—wendy Wisner, Parents, 24 June 2025
The inability of oil to traverse through the Strait of Hormuz, even temporarily, can ratchet up global energy prices, raise shipping costs and create significant supply delays.
—Lori Ann Larocco, CNBC, 22 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for inability
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Hunter Bailey, Charlotte Observer, 24 June 2025
Our inability to record these sweltering spells in a more conspicuous way is shared by the natural world, which rarely shows the marks of an episode of hot weather in any lasting way.
—Ross Andersen, The Atlantic, 24 June 2025
Her recommendation is not to fight or try to control their inability to sit still and be quiet.
—wendy Wisner, Parents, 24 June 2025
The inability of oil to traverse through the Strait of Hormuz, even temporarily, can ratchet up global energy prices, raise shipping costs and create significant supply delays.
—Lori Ann Larocco, CNBC, 22 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for inability
Cite this Entry
“Inability.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inability. Accessed 14 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
inability
noun
in·abil·i·ty
ˌin-ə-ˈbil-ət-ē
: lack of ability, power, or means
his inability to carry a tune
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