ENGLISH
REFERENCE

inaction

n. uncountable
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˌɪˈnækʃən// UK //ɪnˈækʃən// in·ac·tion

n. a lack of action when something should be done. You use this word when someone stays still or does nothing in a situation that needs a response.

n. the state of not taking action or the failure to act when appropriate. Often carries a negative connotation of negligence or hesitation in the face of a problem.


SIMPLE

The government's inaction led to a serious crisis.

CONTEXTUAL

After months of inaction from the landlord, the tenants decided to fix the broken heating system themselves.

COMPLEX

Historians often debate whether the leader's inaction was a calculated strategic move to let the situation resolve itself or a genuine failure of political will during a time of upheaval.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Origin

From French inaction. Morphologically in- + action.

Usage

Typically used in the singular; often paired with the preposition 'on' or 'regarding' to specify the subject of the delay.

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