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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.

But an inability to meet that demand has become a concern.

From Barron's • May 7, 2026

And therein lies Rangers' Achilles heel this season - the inability to consistently produce over 90 minutes.

From BBC • May 5, 2026

These can include hopelessness, difficulty thinking clearly, or anhedonia -- the inability to feel pleasure and loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities.

From Science Daily • May 4, 2026

The retailer’s inability to ignore California shows how the state is still an economic leader, with a GDP higher than that of any other state and all but three countries.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 24, 2026

Sander bore with me and the infinite variations I employed in saying my lines, and my inability to say the name Pedringano properly, until he could bear it no longer.

From "The Shakespeare Stealer" by Gary L. Blackwood

Vocabulary lists containing inability

"Ellen West" by Frank Bidart

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