Basic Details
Word: Impotent
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Lacking power or ability; unable to take effective action.
Synonyms: Helpless, powerless, weak
Antonyms: Powerful, capable, strong
Idioms and Phrases
- Hands are tied: Used when someone is unable to act or change a situation. Example: "I would help him, but my hands are tied due to rules."
- At the end of one's rope: To be in a situation where one has no more options available. Example: "After trying to fix the problem for hours, she felt at the end of her rope."
Usage Examples
Example 1: He felt impotent in the face of the large problem, unsure of how to make a difference.
Example 2: The decision to move forward without any consultation left the team feeling impotent and undervalued.
Example 3: When faced with such a powerful opponent, she realised that her arguments seemed impotent and ineffective.
Fun Fact
The word "impotent" comes from the Latin word "impotens," which means "powerless." It has been used since the early 15th century to describe both physical powerlessness and a lack of effectiveness in action.
Famous Quote
"The only thing worse than being blind is having sight but no vision." Helen Keller
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "impotent" mean?
a) Having great strength
b) Lacking power or ability
c) Very effective
d) Extremely loud
Answer: b) Lacking power or ability
2. Which of these is a synonym of "impotent"?
a) Strong
b) Powerless
c) Brave
d) Clever
Answer: b) Powerless
3. Which word is an antonym of "impotent"?
a) Weak
b) Powerful
c) Helpless
d) Ineffective
Answer: b) Powerful
4. Which sentence uses "impotent" correctly?
a) He felt impotent when he could not find his favourite book.
b) The plan seemed impotent against such a challenge.
c) She made an impotent cake for the party.
d) They had an impotent time at the concert.
Answer: b) The plan seemed impotent against such a challenge.
5. Which idiom means being unable to act or change a situation?
a) Hands are tied
b) At the end of one's rope
c) In hot water
d) Jumping through hoops
Answer: a) Hands are tied
