English Reference
Noun

impotence

n.
C1 Advanced US /ˈɪmpətəns/ UK /ˈɪmpətəns/ im·po·tence UK spelling impotences

n.the inability to perform a specific task or achieve a goal. It can also describe a lack of power or strength in a person or thing.

n.the state of being unable to perform a specific function or achieve a desired result. Often used in political or medical contexts to describe a lack of authority or physical capability.


SIMPLE

The new law caused a sense of political impotence among the citizens.

CONTEXTUAL

The team's lack of a clear strategy led to a feeling of professional impotence during the final quarter.

COMPLEX

The sudden collapse of the central bank's reserves created a climate of economic impotence, leaving the government unable to intervene without triggering a full-scale panic.


From Middle French impotence, from Latin impotentia.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Latin impotentia
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Occasional
Updated