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.
However, today’s immigration challenges are the result of years of inaction by the state and, in many cases, policies that have prevented local law enforcement from cooperating with federal authorities. Erika I. Ritchie, Oc Register, 3 June 2026 The stakes of inaction are high. Sandee Lamotte, CNN Money, 3 June 2026 Government inaction in Springfield is nothing new. Jon Greenberg, New York Times, 2 June 2026 Hammond Mayor Tom McDermott said Illinois’ inaction would bode well for Hammond’s plan for a Bears stadium. Robert McCoppin, Chicago Tribune, 1 June 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

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Cite this Entry

“Inaction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inaction. Accessed 6 Jun. 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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