Helplessness

Definitions

1. The state of being helpless.
   uncountable, usually
2. A feeling of inadequacy or impotence.
   uncountable, usually

Equivalents

Examples

“Near-synonyms: powerlessness, impotence”

“From the most ancient times to the present⟳, in the crudest primitive tribe or the most magnificently ornamented civilization, man has found himself in a state of awed helplessness when confronted by the phenomena of strange illnesses or aberrations.”

“ADAM: 'You are faced with overwhelming power. Accept⟳ your helplessness.'”

“Captain Edward Carlisle, soldier as he was, martinet as he was, felt a curious sensation of helplessness seize upon him as he met her steady gaze, her alluring smile⟳ ; he could not tell⟳ what this prisoner might do.”

CEFR level