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Definitions

inability

[in-uh-bil-i-tee] / ˌɪn əˈbɪl ɪ ti /
NOUN
lack of ability
Synonyms
STRONGEST
failure impotence incompetence inefficiency ineptitude lack shortcoming weakness
STRONG
disqualification frailty inadequacy inaptitude incapability incapacity ineffectiveness ineffectualness inefficacy ineptness insufficiency inutility necessity powerlessness unfitness
WEAK
incapacitation
Antonyms
STRONGEST
strong point success
STRONG
ability sufficiency
WEAK
capacity competence skill talent

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Chief among them is the seeming inability to absorb a blow and come back fighting.

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

Obviously, his inability to retain 7-foot-3 center Aday Mara was frustrating and ultimately devastating.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2026

He’s long resented her inability to contain the frenzy surrounding the Jeffrey Epstein files.

From Slate • Apr. 4, 2026

Prime Minister Mark Carney also publicly criticized Rousseau’s inability to speak French, calling it poor judgment for the head of a national carrier.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 31, 2026

After multiple psychiatric evaluations and treatments, Joe was discharged for an inability to adjust emotionally to military life.

From "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" by Rebecca Skloot

Vocabulary lists containing inability

"Ellen West" by Frank Bidart

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