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Impotent Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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impotent

[หˆษชmpษ™tษ™nt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

feeling powerless

1. Lacking power or ability; unable to take effective action. 2. Weak or lacking in strength. 3. Ineffective or powerless in a particular situation.

Synonyms

helpless, ineffective, powerless, weak.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
impotent

This word is often used to describe complete lack of power or ability, and can have a stronger, often negative connotation. It can also be used in medical or physiological terms.

  • Despite his efforts, he felt impotent in the face of systemic corruption.
  • The medication was intended to help with his impotent condition.
powerless

Describes a state of having no control or influence over a situation, often used in emotional or social contexts.

  • She felt powerless against the corporate decision.
  • Many people feel powerless in the face of economic inequality.
weak

Used to describe physical strength, character, or effectiveness. It can be both neutral and negative depending on the context.

  • The bridge was weak and needed immediate repairs.
  • His argument was weak and failed to convince the audience.
ineffective

Best used to describe efforts, tools, methods, or people that do not produce the desired outcome. It is more neutral compared to 'impotent'.

  • The new policy was ineffective in reducing the crime rate.
  • His attempts to calm the situation were ineffective.
helpless

Appropriate for situations where someone feels entirely unable to act or protect themselves. It often conveys a sense of vulnerability.

  • The stranded hikers felt helpless as the storm approached.
  • She looked helpless, unable to stop the tears from falling.

Examples of usage

  • He felt impotent in the face of injustice.
  • The government seemed impotent to stop the spread of the virus.
  • She was frustrated by her impotent attempts to change the situation.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'impotent'

The word 'impotent' originated from the Latin word 'impotentem', which means 'without strength, powerless'. Over time, the meaning of the word expanded to include not just physical weakness, but also a sense of powerlessness in various situations. The term has been used in English since the late 14th century.

See also: omnipotent, potency, potential, potentiality, potentiator.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,101, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.