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
His inability to defend and his swing and miss rate are just so hard to overcome.
—
Will Sammon, New York Times, 25 July 2025
Parkinson’s patients typically notice a physical slowing and inability to move their body.
—Angelica Stabile, FOXNews.com, 25 July 2025
The series from Gemmill, Wyle and John Wells kicked off in January by focusing on Robby’s inability to cope with the death of his mentor during the pandemic.
—Lynette Rice, Deadline, 24 July 2025
About 45% say the inability to get people with the right skills is the biggest obstacle to bringing in AI—something that seven in 10 say is likely to add to the company’s tech headcount.
—Megan Poinski, Forbes.com, 24 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for inability
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Will Sammon, New York Times, 25 July 2025
Parkinson’s patients typically notice a physical slowing and inability to move their body.
—Angelica Stabile, FOXNews.com, 25 July 2025
The series from Gemmill, Wyle and John Wells kicked off in January by focusing on Robby’s inability to cope with the death of his mentor during the pandemic.
—Lynette Rice, Deadline, 24 July 2025
About 45% say the inability to get people with the right skills is the biggest obstacle to bringing in AI—something that seven in 10 say is likely to add to the company’s tech headcount.
—Megan Poinski, Forbes.com, 24 July 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 1 Aug. 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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