inaction

noun

in·​ac·​tion (ˌ)i-ˈnak-shən How to pronounce inaction (audio)
Synonyms of inactionnext
: lack of action or activity : idleness
protesting the administration's inaction

Synonyms of inaction

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Examples of inaction in a Sentence

The protesters criticized the administration's inaction on environmental issues. We must consider the consequences of continued inaction.
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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 costs of inaction—failing to invest in the human, natural and physical infrastructure cities will need, or to strengthen the rules and institutions that govern heat—are also large and growing. — Jasmin Malik Chua, Footwear News, 31 July 2026 In a statement, CMS spokesperson Timothy Foster said state inaction on hospice programs rife with fraud drove the need for federal intervention. — Laurie Udesky, Miami Herald, 30 July 2026 Offseason inaction on the pitching side already riled folks up, though … and methinks alleviating that angst will require something more adventurous. — Tyler Estep, AJC.com, 29 July 2026 Rahmstorf, head of Earth System Analysis at the Potsdam Institute, expressed anger at political inaction despite decades of warnings from scientists. — David Vetter, Forbes.com, 27 July 2026 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

Rhymes for inaction

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Browse Nearby Words

in a coon's age
inaction
inactivate
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Cite this Entry

“Inaction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inaction. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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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

Nglish: Translation of inaction for Spanish Speakers

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