inexperience

noun

in·​ex·​pe·​ri·​ence ˌi-nik-ˈspir-ē-ən(t)s How to pronounce inexperience (audio)
1
: lack of practical experience
2
: lack of knowledge of the ways of the world
inexperienced adjective

Examples of inexperience in a Sentence

He blames his mistakes on inexperience.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Mamdani's opponents will likely continue to attack him for his views on Israel, which have drawn criticism from some Jewish groups, and his relative inexperience as third-term lawmaker with a very modest record of legislative accomplishment. Eduardo Cuevas, USA Today, 26 June 2025 Their inexperience was seen as a liability; their eagerness, a barrier to effectiveness. Jill Shedek, Forbes.com, 17 June 2025 While the team just paid Horn and Mike Jackson to be its starting duo, Smith-Wade, Bartholomew and others have been knocked for their inexperience. Mike Kaye, Charlotte Observer, 11 June 2025 There are certain places, and times, when blaming youth and inexperience fits. Mac Engel june 10, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 10 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for inexperience

Word History

Etymology

Middle French, from Late Latin inexperientia, from Latin in- + experientia experience

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of inexperience was in 1598

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Inexperience.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inexperience. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

inexperience

noun
in·​ex·​pe·​ri·​ence ˌin-ik-ˈspir-ē-ən(t)s How to pronounce inexperience (audio)
: lack of experience
inexperienced adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on inexperience

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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