INABILITIES Synonyms: 43 Similar and Opposite Words

inability

noun

ˌi-nə-ˈbi-lə-tē

Definition of inability

as in incapability

the lack of sufficient ability, power, or means the apparent inability of young children to sit still

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Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of inability Beyond the inability to concentrate on their homework without constant prodding, is this really a big problem? — Stephanie Ganz, Parents, 4 July 2026 While there are some drawbacks compared to traditional investments — such as its inability to earn dividends — there are several ways to add gold to your portfolio. — Liz Knueven, CNBC, 7 July 2026 My embodiment—paralysis—is conjured when trying to describe an inability, a lack, an incapacity. — Rebekah Taussig, Time, 7 July 2026 Criticisms include legends being locked to Ultimate Team and the inability to export draft classes to Madden, plus Road to Glory's limited scope. — Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 6 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for inability

Recent Examples of Synonyms for inability

Noun

Trump’s command of Congress owes to the incapability of many politicians to see beyond the next election.

— Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 29 Jan. 2026

Definition of incapability

Noun

Some were permanently dismissed due to statute of limitations or legal insufficiency, while others were temporary on legal grounds, meaning Pines' lawyers can attempt to correct them.

— Taijuan Moorman, USA Today, 9 June 2026
There’s a temptation to call such men too big for their boots, but Henri is too small for his, and Arlaud is so good at projecting that insufficiency, yet still being riveting to watch.

— Jessica Kiang, Variety, 20 May 2026

Definition of insufficiency

Noun

In it, the author described a culture of confusion, stress, and incompetence, as contractors competed for work to be completed under near-impossible deadlines.

— Cortney Harding, Forbes.com, 29 June 2026
The most serious charges — which included incompetence, negligence and failure of duty — were dismissed.

— Alene Tchekmedyian, Los Angeles Times, 17 June 2026

Definition of incompetence

Noun

Federal agents have descended upon the home of Cindy Rodriguez Singh, the North Texas mom who was recently sent to a state hospital after an incompetency ruling in the murder of her young son.

— Matthew Ablon, CBS News, 12 May 2026
The longer the delay, the more the system risks turning temporary incompetency into long-term confinement.

— Stephen Martin, Oklahoma Watch, 30 Mar. 2026

Definition of incompetency

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inability

in a breeze

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“Inability.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/inability. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of inability

noun

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