inaction

noun

in·​ac·​tion (ˌ)i-ˈnak-shən How to pronounce inaction (audio)
: lack of action or activity : idleness

Examples of inaction in a Sentence

The protesters criticized the administration's inaction on environmental issues. We must consider the consequences of continued inaction.
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.
The reality that inaction carries more political peril than reform may now be dawning among members of the Beltway class. Editorial, Boston Herald, 11 July 2025 Especially when climate inaction is already hitting vulnerable communities the hardest. Ben Jealous, Rolling Stone, 10 July 2025 But without that pressure, the cost of inaction could be catastrophic and long lasting and will affect people far beyond the walls of higher education. Matt Motta, Scientific American, 10 July 2025 That inaction has left Missouri open to abuse with little oversight, the report found. Kacen Bayless july 8, Kansas City Star, 8 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for inaction

Word History

First Known Use

1707, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of inaction was in 1707

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Cite this Entry

“Inaction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inaction. Accessed 21 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

inaction

noun
in·​ac·​tion (ˈ)in-ˈak-shən How to pronounce inaction (audio)
: lack of action or activity : idleness

More from Merriam-Webster on inaction

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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