Synonyms of powerlessness

powerlessness

noun

as in inability

the lack of sufficient ability, power, or means

cursed his powerlessness to affect the outcome of his friend's life-threatening illness

Synonyms & Similar Words

• inability
• impotence
• incapacity
• incompetence
• ineptitude
• incompetency
• inadequacy
• incapability
• insufficiency
• ineffectiveness
• disqualification
• inefficiency
• inefficacy
• inaptitude
• ineffectuality
• ineffectualness
• inefficaciousness

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• ability
• capacity
• competence
• adequacy
• potency
• competency
• capability
• efficiency
• gift
• talent
• effectiveness
• endowment
• genius
• aptitude
• power
• flair
• bent
• knack
• strength
• suitability
• fitness
• potency
• efficaciousness
• effectualness
• suitableness
• puissance
• sinew

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of powerlessness

Unable to leave without military permission, Ridi confronts settlers who claim his yard as theirs, underscoring Palestinians’ powerlessness as violent outposts expand with scant police accountability. — Sam Metz, Los Angeles Times, 18 Aug. 2026

The fast pace of technological change has intensified this feeling of powerlessness. — Belonging Forum, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026

This sense of powerlessness, too, is a genuine aspect of a poet’s reality. — Literary Hub, 26 June 2026

As far as going through life’s grand stages is concerned, this has been a double-whammy of pain and powerlessness. — Eric Koreen, New York Times, 21 June 2026

Violence can come from feelings of powerlessness and desperation. — Max Gao, Variety, 29 Apr. 2026

Forced into an uneasy alliance with a sharp-witted poacher living on the margins of society (Kellyman), the two women fight back, turning their powerlessness into strength through violence, wit, and defiance. — Zac Ntim, Deadline, 27 Apr. 2026

Perhaps the deepest conflict is not between red and blue, but between power and powerlessness. — George Packer, The Atlantic, 16 Mar. 2026

Outcry is meant as an antidote to those feelings of powerlessness. — Nina Metz, Chicago Tribune, 24 Feb. 2026