inability
noun
in·abil·i·ty
ˌi-nə-ˈbi-lə-tē 
: lack of sufficient power, resources, or capacity
my 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
Severe abdominal pain, vomiting, bloating that doesn’t improve, or inability to pass stool or gas for long periods of time are not normal side effects of fiber and require prompt medical care.
—
Morgan Pearson, Verywell Health, 16 Feb. 2026
While lower prices are welcome news for consumers, cannabis businesses have had difficulty making money due to high financing and operating costs, and an inability to take normal business tax deductions due to the drug’s illegality under federal law.
—Robert McCoppin, Chicago Tribune, 16 Feb. 2026
The team’s inability to come back late in games was not lost on him.
—Abbey Mastracco, New York Daily News, 16 Feb. 2026
This leads to bleeding, pain, and infection, as well as an inability to chew food normally.
—Dr. John De Jong, Boston Herald, 15 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for inability
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Morgan Pearson, Verywell Health, 16 Feb. 2026
While lower prices are welcome news for consumers, cannabis businesses have had difficulty making money due to high financing and operating costs, and an inability to take normal business tax deductions due to the drug’s illegality under federal law.
—Robert McCoppin, Chicago Tribune, 16 Feb. 2026
The team’s inability to come back late in games was not lost on him.
—Abbey Mastracco, New York Daily News, 16 Feb. 2026
This leads to bleeding, pain, and infection, as well as an inability to chew food normally.
—Dr. John De Jong, Boston Herald, 15 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for inability
Cite this Entry
“Inability.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inability. Accessed 18 Feb. 2026.
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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