inaction

noun

in·​ac·​tion (ˌ)i-ˈnak-shən How to pronounce inaction (audio)
Synonyms of inactionnext
: lack of action or activity : idleness
protesting the administration's inaction

Examples of inaction in a Sentence

The protesters criticized the administration's inaction on environmental issues. We must consider the consequences of continued inaction.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Their inaction is unacceptable. Lucas Robinson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 May 2026 No one is exempt from their responsibility, regardless of rank or assignment, and all must answer for their actions and inactions. Sierra Van Der Brug, Daily News, 4 May 2026 But the article applies the same historical critique to dismiss current independent science, giving scientific cover to inaction that can have a significant impact on women’s cognitive health. Torie Bosch, STAT, 2 May 2026 Officials asked people to be cautious, noting that only 7% of wildfires in the state are caused by lightning, and over 90% of fires are the result of some human action or inaction. Alan Gionet, CBS News, 30 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for inaction

Word History

First Known Use

1707, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of inaction was in 1707

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Inaction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inaction. Accessed 9 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

inaction

noun
in·​ac·​tion (ˈ)in-ˈak-shən How to pronounce inaction (audio)
: lack of action or activity : idleness

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