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

Johnson’s mayoral tenure has been marked by an inability to work with Springfield, a skill deficiency displayed by his staunch allies at the teachers union and the aligned board members on the CBOE. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 31 Aug. 2026

The debate over Israeli citizens’ inability to cast ballots from abroad with limited exceptions (for example, official government representatives stationed abroad), has been ongoing for decades. — Natasha Mozgovaya, Sun Sentinel, 31 Aug. 2026

The Loyola Blakefield graduate and founder of First Team Staffing, an organization centered around staffing professional and temporary workers, was distraught over his sudden inability to consistently drive off the tee. — Edward Lee, Baltimore Sun, 31 Aug. 2026

Community health workers also stress AI's inability to build trust and human connection, especially in underserved areas. — Lisa Fitzpatrick, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 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