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

An inability to pay for services on time could negatively affect visa and green card applications. —Carlos De Loera, Los Angeles Times, 13 Apr. 2026

The Mets have not exactly been a fun team to watch this week, and fans are already venting their frustrations with the seeming inability to create runs. —Abbey Mastracco, New York Daily News, 11 Apr. 2026

Fundamentally, that is what football is all about, underlined by other English clubs’ struggles in Europe or inability to find any consistency in the league. —Jacob Tanswell, New York Times, 10 Apr. 2026

For more than 50 years, mental health literature has taught professionals about narcissistic behavior, with its grandiosity, exaggerated need for praise, inability to admit error, and turning setbacks into personal grievances. —Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 9 Apr. 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