Powerlessness: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone feels completely unable to change or influence a situation. Often describes a general state or condition.

• She felt a deep sense of powerlessness in the face of the natural disaster.
• His powerlessness to stop the argument made him very upset.

Describes a condition where someone cannot help themselves or others, often evoking sympathy. Commonly used in emotional or personal contexts.

• The child's helplessness in the busy market was evident.
• She screamed in helplessness as the car skidded off the road.

Often used to describe a lack of power or ability to act in a desired way, typically in formal or serious contexts. Can also specifically refer to lack of physical power, especially in medical terms.

• The politician expressed his impotence in changing the unfair law.
• He struggled with feelings of impotence after the surgery.

Used to describe a state of lacking strength, whether physical, emotional, or moral. This word can carry a more neutral tone compared to others.

• Her weakness after the illness was apparent to everyone.
• He struggled to hide his weakness during the crisis.