as in incapability
the lack of sufficient ability, power, or means
the apparent inability of young children to sit still
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of inability
And Pahlavi’s inability—or unwillingness—to control supporters who attack non-monarchist dissidents has fractured what should be a united front.
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Bobby Ghosh, Time, 9 Jan. 2026
On the last day of the trip, Poppy and Alex finally drunkenly kiss, but their inability to express their true feelings for each other leaves them both feeling rejected.
—Ashley Boucher, Entertainment Weekly, 9 Jan. 2026
The report reiterated concerns about seven situations, two of which have been on the list since 2007, including the bureaucracy’s chronic inability to successfully employ information technology — embarrassing for a state that is the global center for digital tools.
—Dan Walters, Mercury News, 9 Jan. 2026
And although Hanan is one of the movie’s central figures, Dabis keeps a close eye on the Hammad men, whose masculinity has been shaped (and sometimes wounded) by their people’s inability to be free.
—Tim Grierson, Los Angeles Times, 9 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for inability
Recent Examples of Synonyms for inability
Noun
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Food insufficiencies dropped by 42%, and financial insufficiencies dropped by 43% in households with children.—
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Studies show that 50 percent of the global population is estimated to suffer from a Vitamin D insufficiency, and this time of year, the effects are even more obvious thanks to a lack of sun exposure—mood swings and fatigue set in, and general aches and pains can become worse.—
Noun
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Because of such incompetence, the city’s finances are a disaster and unsustainable, which will ultimately lead to bankruptcy without prompt action.—
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Still, at least Geralt has Jaskier, whose incompetence is a regular problem but whose loyalty is unquestionable.—
Noun
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Maybe that data suggests incompetency in the sporting director role.—
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The National Geographic series dives into footage and narratives from officials leading the disaster response at the time, revealing incompetencies and false information from the media that cost locals their lives.—
Cite this Entry
“Inability.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/inability. Accessed 13 Jan. 2026.
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