inability
noun
in·abil·i·ty
ˌi-nə-ˈbi-lə-tē 
: lack of sufficient power, resources, or capacity
his inability to do math
Examples of inability in a Sentence
She has shown an inability to concentrate.
the inability of the government to cope with the problem
Recent Examples on the Web
The researchers discovered that the solvent’s inability to mix with bodily fluids is key for the drug crystals to clump together and form a long-lasting drug reservoir (depot) beneath the skin post-injection.
—
Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 24 Mar. 2025
Less affable than in the previous season, King Henry’s narcissism and inability to face his decline are placed front and center.
—Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 23 Mar. 2025
An inability to get the final defensive stops.
—Brendan Quinn, The Athletic, 23 Mar. 2025
Chronic insomnia — an inability to fall or stay asleep or waking up much earlier than desired — could lead to serious issues, including heart attacks and stroke.
—Andrew Torgan, CNN, 23 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for inability
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Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 24 Mar. 2025
Less affable than in the previous season, King Henry’s narcissism and inability to face his decline are placed front and center.
—Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 23 Mar. 2025
An inability to get the final defensive stops.
—Brendan Quinn, The Athletic, 23 Mar. 2025
Chronic insomnia — an inability to fall or stay asleep or waking up much earlier than desired — could lead to serious issues, including heart attacks and stroke.
—Andrew Torgan, CNN, 23 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for inability
Cite this Entry
“Inability.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inability. Accessed 19 Apr. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
inability
noun
in·abil·i·ty
ˌin-ə-ˈbil-ət-ē
: lack of ability, power, or means
his inability to carry a tune
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