powerless
/ˈpaʊər.ləs/Having no power, strength, or ability to act or influence.
After the accident, she felt powerless to help her injured friend.
She had no ability to assist her friend due to the severity of the situation.
The government was powerless to stop the spread of the virus initially.
The government lacked the resources or authority to prevent the virus from spreading at first.
Often used to describe a state of helplessness or inability to affect a situation.
Collocations
Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
Usage in Emotional Contexts
Powerless can describe emotional states, such as feeling unable to help someone or change a situation.
Usage in Political Contexts
Powerless can describe a lack of political influence or authority, such as a government being powerless to act.
⚡Gold Rule
Avoid Overuse
While powerless can be useful, avoid overusing it in contexts where other synonyms like 'helpless' or 'weak' might be more precise.
📖Word Origin
From Middle English 'powerles,' from 'power' (from Old French 'pouvoir') + '-less' (suffix meaning 'without').
📝Usage Notes
Often used to describe a lack of control or influence in a situation, whether physical, emotional, or political.