Synonyms of powerlessness

powerlessness

noun

as in inability

the lack of sufficient ability, power, or means

cursed his powerlessness to affect the outcome of his friend's life-threatening illness

Synonyms & Similar Words

• inability
• impotence
• incapacity
• incompetence
• ineptitude
• incompetency
• inadequacy
• incapability
• insufficiency
• ineffectiveness
• disqualification
• inefficiency
• inefficacy
• inaptitude
• ineffectuality
• ineffectualness
• inefficaciousness

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• ability
• capacity
• competence
• adequacy
• potency
• competency
• capability
• efficiency
• gift
• talent
• effectiveness
• endowment
• genius
• aptitude
• power
• flair
• bent
• knack
• strength
• suitability
• fitness
• potency
• efficaciousness
• effectualness
• suitableness
• puissance
• sinew

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of powerlessness

The study was designed to examine the psychological effects of authority and powerlessness in a prison setting, according to the university. — Yamillah Hurtado, PEOPLE, 29 Sep. 2026

New characters are introduced, many interesting details are offered, yet the narration never loses its focus, every sentence adding to the characters’ mounting sense of powerlessness in the face of such a tragic death. — Literary Hub, 18 Sep. 2026

This atmosphere of collective powerlessness offers one explanation for the conspiratorial thinking at the heart of Lamar versus Drake. — Jeff Ihaza, Rolling Stone, 14 Sep. 2026

That sense of powerlessness against an unknowable, unkillable foe. — Keith Langston, Space.com, 2 Sep. 2026

Unable to leave without military permission, Ridi confronts settlers who claim his yard as theirs, underscoring Palestinians’ powerlessness as violent outposts expand with scant police accountability. — Sam Metz, Los Angeles Times, 18 Aug. 2026

The fast pace of technological change has intensified this feeling of powerlessness. — Belonging Forum, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026

As far as going through life’s grand stages is concerned, this has been a double-whammy of pain and powerlessness. — Eric Koreen, New York Times, 21 June 2026

Violence can come from feelings of powerlessness and desperation. — Max Gao, Variety, 29 Apr. 2026