Synonyms of inertia

inertia

noun

i-ˈnər-shə 

as in laziness

an inclination not to do work or engage in activities

the inertia that grips so many of the club's members is the reason why nothing ever gets done

Synonyms & Similar Words

• laziness
• idleness
• indolence
• sloth
• shiftlessness
• loafing
• lethargy
• apathy
• sluggishness
• lassitude
• supineness
• languor
• lounging
• listlessness
• lolling
• dallying
• goldbricking

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• industry
• drive
• initiative
• industriousness
• ambition
• enterprise
• hustle
• energy
• perseverance
• diligence
• go
• vigor
• vitality
• exuberance
• assiduity
• animation
• robustness
• vivacity
• liveliness
• pep
• sprightliness
• briskness
• vibrancy
• assiduousness
• vim
• lustiness
• peppiness
• jazziness

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of inertia

Courts worldwide are emerging as tools for driving climate action against political inertia, with the International Court of Justice set to deliver a landmark ruling Wednesday. —Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 23 July 2025

This mindset reduces inertia and builds momentum, one clear, conscientious step at a time. —Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 22 July 2025

Fortunately, in applications like blower motors for AC units or small urban commuter scooters and the like, more inertia isn't a bad thing. —Joe Salas july 19, New Atlas, 19 July 2025

But as screen lovers, the pair have almost negative chemistry, coming together with a shrug and staying together out of what feels like inertia. —Sophie Gilbert, The Atlantic, 17 July 2025