Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /nɒnˈækʃən/
KK: /nɑnˈækʃən/
Definition
The state of not doing anything or not taking action.
Example
His nonaction during the crisis surprised everyone.
Conversation

Have you ever thought about how sometimes doing nothing is a form of nonaction?

Yeah, I guess it can be a bit confusing at times.

Exactly! Like when we just sit around and expect things to change.

Right, sometimes we need to take action instead of waiting for nonaction to do the work.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
inaction
passivity
idleness
Root Explanation
Nonaction → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "action" (from Latin "actio", meaning the process of doing or performing). The word "nonaction" refers to the state of not doing or performing an action.
Memory Tip
Think of 'not' ('non-') combined with 'doing' ('action') to remember that 'nonaction' means the absence of doing anything.
Visually Confused Words
nontraction
nonsanction
nonreaction
nonexaction
nonsuction
nonfiction
nomination
intonation