Synonyms of powerless

powerless

adjective

ˈpau̇(-ə)r-ləs 

as in helpless

unable to act or achieve one's purpose

I wish I could help you, but I am powerless in this situation

Synonyms & Similar Words

• helpless
• paralyzed
• weak
• incompetent
• impotent
• incapable
• high and dry
• passive
• useless
• handcuffed
• unfit
• hamstrung
• ineffective
• impuissant
• hog-tied
• feeble
• ineffectual
• inept
• infirm
• supine
• spineless
• frail
• unaggressive

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• powerful
• able
• strong
• mighty
• effective
• capable
• competent
• potent
• efficient
• dominant
• authoritarian
• autocratic
• important
• dynamic
• tough
• forceful
• puissant
• despotic
• major
• significant
• energetic
• vigorous
• tyrannical
• robust
• sturdy
• dictatorial
• senior
• magisterial
• top
• high-level

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of powerless

But Enid officials are powerless under state law to pass their own rules governing these wells. — Nick Bowlin, ProPublica, 30 June 2026

Is Congress powerless to put a check? — CBS News, 28 June 2026

Unfortunately, we humans would be powerless against a rare giant projectile many miles in diameter. — Govert Schilling, Scientific American, 27 June 2026

There are a few ways climate conscious individuals aren’t completely powerless, said several experts in water use, artificial intelligence, data center placement and environmental sustainability. — ABC News, 24 June 2026