Impotence: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is often used in medical or psychological contexts to describe the inability to achieve an erection or have children, and it might also mean a lack of power or effectiveness in a broader sense. It can have a negative connotation.

• He felt a sense of impotence when he couldn't help his friend.
• The medication helped to treat his impotence.

This word is used to describe the lack of ability to perform a specific task or action. It is a neutral term and can be applied to various contexts, such as skills, tasks, or functions.

• Her inability to swim meant she couldn't join the team.
• The inability to solve the problem frustrated him.

This term reflects a lack of power or control over a situation, often leading to feelings of helplessness. It can be used in both personal and broader social or political contexts.

• They felt a sense of powerlessness against the forces of nature.
• The community's powerlessness in the face of the corporation's decisions was disheartening.

Typically used to describe a lack of strength or force, either physically, emotionally, or in terms of skills. It has a broader application and can refer to both people and things.

• His weakness was evident after being ill for so long.
• Emotional weakness can sometimes make it difficult to handle stress.

This term is often used in medical or psychological contexts to refer to a man's inability to achieve an erection or maintain it. It can also be used metaphorically for lack of power or ability to act effectively in a situation.

• The patient was diagnosed with impotence and prescribed medication.
• The government's impotence in dealing with the crisis was evident.

This term is commonly used to describe something or someone that fails to produce the desired outcome or is not successful. It often refers to actions, methods, or interventions rather than people.

• The ineffectiveness of the new policy became evident after the first quarter.
• Despite the efforts, his actions proved ineffective in resolving the issue.

This word is used to describe a feeling of being unable to do anything to improve a situation. It often conveys emotional distress and a sense of being overwhelmed.

• She felt a deep sense of helplessness when she saw the damage caused by the storm.
• His helplessness in the face of the tragedy was heartbreaking.

This term is primarily used in a medical context to describe the inability to conceive children. It can also extend to metaphorical uses, describing situations where growth or productivity is not achievable.

• The couple sought medical advice after years of struggling with infertility.
• The infertility of the soil made farming difficult in the region.