impotence (C1)
noun
Pronunciation: /ˈɪmpətəns/
Definition
The state of being unable to take effective action; helplessness or powerlessness. Also, in a medical context, the inability of a man to achieve or maintain an erection.
Examples
The government's impotence in controlling inflation led to widespread public discontent.
He felt a profound sense of impotence as he watched his friend struggle with no way to help.
Medical advice was sought to address the issue of impotence, which was causing significant distress.
How to Use impotence
- sense of impotence (collocation)
- A feeling of being unable to act or help. — "He was overwhelmed by a deep sense of impotence during the crisis."
- political impotence (collocation)
- Lack of power or influence in politics. — "The opposition party's political impotence was evident in their inability to block the new law."
Synonyms of impotence
Words with a similar meaning to impotence:
Antonyms of impotence
Words with the opposite meaning to impotence:
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