paralysis

[pəˈræləsɪs]

paralysis Definition

  • 1the loss of the ability to move or feel in part or most of the body, typically as a result of illness, poison, or injury to the spinal cord.
  • 2a state of helplessness or inactivity where one is unable to act or function effectively

Using paralysis: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "paralysis" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The accident left him with partial paralysis in his legs.

  • Example

    The company's financial paralysis prevented it from making any progress.

  • Example

    The fear of failure caused a paralysis of action.

paralysis Synonyms and Antonyms

Phrases with paralysis

  • a situation where overthinking and excessive analysis leads to inaction or poor decision-making

    Example

    He was so worried about making the wrong choice that he suffered from analysis paralysis and couldn't make a decision.

  • a temporary inability to move or speak that occurs when waking up or falling asleep, often accompanied by hallucinations

    Example

    I experienced sleep paralysis last night and it was terrifying.

  • to cause a situation where one is unable to act or function effectively

    Example

    The constant stress and pressure at work can lead to paralysis and burnout.

Origins of paralysis

from Greek 'paralusis', meaning 'loosening, paralysis'

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Summary: paralysis in Brief

Paralysis [pəˈræləsɪs] refers to the loss of movement or feeling in part or most of the body due to illness, injury, or poison. It can also denote a state of helplessness or inactivity. Examples include 'The accident left him with partial paralysis in his legs,' and 'The fear of failure caused a paralysis of action.' Phrases like 'analysis paralysis' describe overthinking leading to inaction, while 'sleep paralysis' refers to temporary inability to move or speak during sleep.

How do native speakers use this expression?