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inability

noun

ˌi-nə-ˈbi-lə-tē How to pronounce inability (audio)
Definition of inabilitynext
as in incapability
the lack of sufficient ability, power, or means the apparent inability of young children to sit still

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 State highway agencies point to a shrinking workforce and an inability to hire fast enough, according to detailed grant applications filed annually with the FMCSA. — John Kelly, CBS News, 17 Sep. 2026 In Fernández’s version, Antíkona’s insubordination inspires a peoples’ rebellion and brings an end to Klion’s rule due to his inability to treat citizens with common decency. — Carlos De Loera, Los Angeles Times, 17 Sep. 2026 With the war continuing, refinery companies are taking advantage of the low supply – and their inability to make a whole lot more diesel – to charge more than ever for diesel fuel. — Jamie Webster, The Conversation, 17 Sep. 2026 Gartner predicted that at least 30% of generative AI projects will be abandoned after proof-of-concept, citing the organizations’ inability to connect to a clear business purpose. — Daniel Jebaraj, Forbes.com, 15 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for inability
Recent Examples of Synonyms for inability
  1. incapability
  2. insufficiency
  3. incompetence
  4. incompetency
Noun
  • This could reflect in features such as automation incapabilities, ​incompetent workflow designs, overreliance on legacy infrastructure and lack of alignment in financial transformation.
    — Dr. Saheer Nelliparamban, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026
  • 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
  • Products like Creon, Zenpep, Pancreaze, Pertzye, Ultresa and Viokace are typically prescribed for exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, a condition in which the body does not produce enough enzymes on its own.
    — Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 23 Sep. 2026
  • However, Pope Leo is correct in emphasizing the insufficiency of AI ethics in the abstract.
    — Thomas A. Hemphill, The Orlando Sentinel, 18 July 2026
Definition of insufficiency
Noun
  • At the start of the 1986-87 season, a combination of previous boardroom incompetence and broader economics saw Middlesbrough not just in the Third Division, but with their ground, Ayresome Park, padlocked.
    — Michael Walker, New York Times, 15 Sep. 2026
  • Whereas Putin takes extravagant risks on the international stage but is loath to hold his associates accountable for incompetence, Xi is just the opposite.
    — Jonathan A. Czin, The Atlantic, 14 Sep. 2026
Definition of incompetence
Noun
  • Court records show DeFoor has a history of criminal cases involving findings of mental incompetency.
    — Bonny Chu, FOXNews.com, 2 Sep. 2026
  • Those forms are not pertinent to the finding of incompetency and are therefore subject to the open records law, Ziegler and Bradley wrote.
    — Scott Bauer, Los Angeles Times, 7 July 2026
Definition of incompetency

Browse Nearby Words

in
inability
in a breeze
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Inability.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/inability. Accessed 25 Sep. 2026.

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