passiveness

noun

Definition of passivenessnext
as in passivity

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of passiveness Despite his relative passiveness, Brighton’s collective structure is strong. — Matt Pyzdrowski, New York Times, 8 Apr. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for passiveness
  1. passivity
  2. acquiescence
  3. willingness
Noun
  • In that process, key nuances can get lost, turning action into passivity, for instance, or adding a gender to a word where none existed in the original.
    — Chenier Carpio Opua, The Conversation, 5 Aug. 2026
  • Trey posted high contact rates and patience bordering on passivity at showcases.
    — Keith Law, New York Times, 16 July 2026
Definition of passivity
Noun
  • With Taiwan’s 2028 elections approaching, sustained American support strengthens voices favoring self-defense over acquiescence to Beijing.
    — Steve Forbes, Forbes.com, 28 July 2026
  • In any case, the Biden Administration’s grudging acquiescence now looks like the beginning of a pattern of credulous capitulation.
    — David D. Kirkpatrick, New Yorker, 20 July 2026
Definition of acquiescence
Noun
  • But regardless of any lack of confidence in Hamas’ true intentions, in Mladenov’s faith in the ability to verify weapons decommissioning, or indeed Netanyahu’s own willingness to order any troop withdrawals, why poke Trump so publicly in the eye?
    — Andrew Carey, CNN Money, 10 Aug. 2026
  • Few media companies have been able to meaningfully push tech platforms around, but Spotify has shown some willingness in recent months to bend.
    — Max Tani, semafor.com, 9 Aug. 2026
Definition of willingness

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passively
passiveness
passivity
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Cite this Entry

“Passiveness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/passiveness. Accessed 16 Aug. 2026.

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