Meaning & Definition of word "Inaction"

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    Inaction

    /ɪnˈækʃən/

    noun:

    • 1. the lack of action or activity; the state of not acting or being inactive.
      • Example: His inaction during the crisis was widely criticized.
    • 2. a choice to do nothing, often in response to a situation that requires a decision.
      • Example: The inaction of the committee led to the project's failure.
    • 3. the absence of effort or exertion.
      • Example: The team's inaction allowed their rivals to take the lead in the competition.

    Etymology

    From the prefix 'in-' meaning 'not' and 'action' from Latin 'actio'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    paralysis by analysis:

    Inaction due to overthinking or too much analysis.

    action speaks louder than words:

    What one does is more important than what one says.

    to sit on one's hands:

    To do nothing or remain inactive.

    Related Words

    activity:

    The condition of being active; movement.

    responsibility:

    The state or fact of having a duty to deal with something.

    decision:

    A conclusion or resolution reached after consideration.

    Slang Meanings of inaction

    Meaning: Netflix and chill

    Example Sentence: They decided to just Netflix and chill instead of going out.

    Meaning: procrastination

    Example Sentence: His procrastination on the project was a clear case of inaction.