as in inability
the lack of sufficient ability, power, or means
the nurse's ineptitude made it clear that she would be happier in a different line of work
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
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 ineptitude
The Giants are entering year one of the Harbaugh era, looking to get back to credibility after a decade plus of ineptitude.
—
Jackson Thompson, FOXNews.com, 25 Apr. 2026
Another film might want to demystify its spell and show you the creaky machinery under the surface—the bumbling ineptitude of the industry suits, the little humiliations of touring life.
—Mitch Therieau, New Yorker, 17 Apr. 2026
Every misstep the Sky make is a direct reflection of the ineptitude of the team’s ownership and management at the highest level — specifically, Alter and operating chair Nadia Rawlinson.
—Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 7 Apr. 2026
The current policy – put in place to ease congestion – is a glaring example of ineptitude in state government.
—Joe Battenfeld, Boston Herald, 14 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for ineptitude
Jackson Thompson, FOXNews.com, 25 Apr. 2026
Another film might want to demystify its spell and show you the creaky machinery under the surface—the bumbling ineptitude of the industry suits, the little humiliations of touring life.
—Mitch Therieau, New Yorker, 17 Apr. 2026
Every misstep the Sky make is a direct reflection of the ineptitude of the team’s ownership and management at the highest level — specifically, Alter and operating chair Nadia Rawlinson.
—Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 7 Apr. 2026
The current policy – put in place to ease congestion – is a glaring example of ineptitude in state government.
—Joe Battenfeld, Boston Herald, 14 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for ineptitude
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ineptitude
inability
Noun
-
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,
4 June 2026
-
Issues discussed by the candidates ranged from an inability to hire and retain deputies, department morale and poor conditions at the Men’s Central Jail.—
Steve Scauzillo,
Daily News,
4 June 2026
Cite this Entry
“Ineptitude.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ineptitude. Accessed 9 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
