What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
impotent
Example
The government's response to the crisis was impotent and ineffective. [impotent: adjective]
Example
He felt impotent to stop the bullying at school. [impotent: adjective]
powerless
Example
The citizens felt powerless to stop the construction of the new highway. [powerless: adjective]
Example
She was powerless to resist the temptation of the delicious cake. [powerless: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Powerless is more commonly used than impotent in everyday language. Powerless is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while impotent is less common and more formal.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between impotent and powerless?
Impotent is more formal and less commonly used in everyday language, while powerless is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
