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.
His story showed the stakes of local and state inaction on pedestrian safety. Ariane Lange, Sacbee.com, 1 Jan. 2026 But these actions are also the unmistakable product of rising anxiety—specifically, the fear of what might result from inaction. Caleb Pomeroy, Foreign Affairs, 24 Dec. 2025 Sturm expected the 28-year-old Viel to be ready to go despite the inaction. Steve Conroy, Boston Herald, 20 Dec. 2025 But again and again, the opportunities slipped by with inaction. Thomas McInerney, Fortune, 19 Dec. 2025 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 2 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

inaction

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

More from Merriam-Webster on inaction

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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