# incapacity

/ˌɪnkəˈpæsəti/ (US) · /ɪnkəpˈæsɪti/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/incapacity
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

the state of being unable to do something because of a physical or mental problem. It can also mean a lack of legal power to make a decision.

For teachers: the state of being physically or mentally unable to perform a specific task; also refers to the legal inability to act or make decisions. Often used in medical, legal, or administrative contexts.

## Examples

- The court ruled that the defendant was in a state of legal incapacity at the time of the contract, rendering the agreement void and unenforceable.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.