Synonyms of powerlessness

powerlessness

noun

as in inability

the lack of sufficient ability, power, or means

cursed his powerlessness to affect the outcome of his friend's life-threatening illness

Synonyms & Similar Words

• inability
• impotence
• incapacity
• incompetence
• ineptitude
• incompetency
• inadequacy
• incapability
• insufficiency
• ineffectiveness
• disqualification
• inefficiency
• inefficacy
• inaptitude
• ineffectuality
• ineffectualness
• inefficaciousness

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• ability
• capacity
• competence
• adequacy
• potency
• competency
• capability
• efficiency
• gift
• talent
• effectiveness
• endowment
• genius
• aptitude
• power
• flair
• bent
• knack
• strength
• suitability
• fitness
• potency
• efficaciousness
• effectualness
• suitableness
• puissance
• sinew

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of powerlessness

This sense of powerlessness, too, is a genuine aspect of a poet’s reality. — Literary Hub, 26 June 2026

As far as going through life’s grand stages is concerned, this has been a double-whammy of pain and powerlessness. — Eric Koreen, New York Times, 21 June 2026

Violence can come from feelings of powerlessness and desperation. — Max Gao, Variety, 29 Apr. 2026

Forced into an uneasy alliance with a sharp-witted poacher living on the margins of society (Kellyman), the two women fight back, turning their powerlessness into strength through violence, wit, and defiance. — Zac Ntim, Deadline, 27 Apr. 2026

Perhaps the deepest conflict is not between red and blue, but between power and powerlessness. — George Packer, The Atlantic, 16 Mar. 2026

Outcry is meant as an antidote to those feelings of powerlessness. — Nina Metz, Chicago Tribune, 24 Feb. 2026

This oscillation between rage at one’s own powerlessness and fantasies of violence is the song’s motive force. — Mitch Therieau, New Yorker, 7 Feb. 2026

Dead Man’s Wire demonstrates the ultimate powerlessness of both captor and captive. — Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 5 Feb. 2026