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 unknown will always feel risky, but the bigger risk is inaction. Margie Warrell, Forbes, 8 Mar. 2025 The prolonged inaction and uncertainty surrounding this situation have significant implications for the broader UC San Diego community. Ellia M Torkian, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 Mar. 2025 Republicans accused the Democratic leaders of New York, Chicago, Denver and Boston of sheltering dangerous criminals, while several of the mayors pointed to inaction in Washington. Chicago Tribune, 6 Mar. 2025 The scheduled inaction, however, is a contrast to the Occupy movement, which had protesters flooding the streets for months to mobilize against economic inequality and corporate corruption. Angela Yang, NBC News, 28 Feb. 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 12 Mar. 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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