incapacity

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ɪnˈkæpəˌsɪti/

KK: /ɪnˈkæpəˌsɪti/

noun

Definition

A condition where someone is unable to do something due to a physical or mental limitation.

Example

His incapacity to walk was due to an accident.

Conversation

I heard that Tom might not be able to join us for the game this weekend.

Really? Is he okay?

Yeah, he mentioned something about an incapacity from an old injury.

That's too bad; I hope he recovers soon.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

disability

inability

impairment

Antonyms

ability

capacity

competence

Root Explanation

Incapacity → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "capacitas" (from Latin, meaning capacity or ability). The word "incapacity" refers to the state of not having the ability or capacity to do something.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('in-') having the 'ability' ('capacitas') to do something — that's why incapacity means a lack of ability.

Visually Confused Words