Meaning & Definition of word "Inaction"

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.