L'impuissance (en. Impotence)

/lɛ̃.pɥi.sɑ̃s/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
noun
Lack of strength, energy, or ability to act.
He feels a deep powerlessness in the face of the situation.
Il ressent une profonde impuissance face à la situation.
Psychological state where one feels unable to influence or change events.
The powerlessness of citizens in the face of corruption is alarming.
L'impuissance des citoyens face à la corruption est alarmante.

Etymology

From the Latin 'impotentia', meaning incapacity.

Common Phrases and Expressions

To feel powerless
Feeling a lack of power or control.
se sentir impuissant
State of powerlessness
Condition characterized by the absence of power to act.
état d'impuissance
Powerlessness to act
Incapacity to act effectively.
impuissance à agir

Related Words

Impotent
Refers to someone who cannot fulfill their duties or functions.
impotent
Impower
Action of depriving someone of power or capability.
impouvoir

Slang Meanings

To have one's hands tied
He has his hands tied in this matter, so he feels his powerlessness.
Il a les mains liées dans cette affaire, donc il ressent son impuissance.
To be in a tough spot
In the face of the crisis, many of us feel like we're in a tough spot.
Face à la crise, beaucoup d'entre nous se sentent à la ramasse.