inaction
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inaction
The state of doing nothing or failing to act, especially in a situation that would require a response or intervention.
Der Opposition warf der Regierung Untätigkeit angesichts der steigenden Arbeitslosigkeit vor.
The opposition accused the government of inaction in the face of rising unemployment.
The word is made up of the prefix 'Un-' and the noun 'Tätigkeit' (activity). The prefix 'Un-' expresses negation here, so 'Untätigkeit' (inaction) literally means 'Nicht-Tätigkeit' (non-activity) or 'Nicht-Handeln' (not acting).
Seine Untätigkeit in dieser wichtigen Angelegenheit war enttäuschend.
His inaction in this important matter was disappointing.
A very common phrase is 'jemandem Untätigkeit vorwerfen' (to accuse someone of inaction). Another fixed expression is 'zur Untätigkeit verdammt sein' (to be condemned to inaction), which means that you are unable to act.
Die Bürger warfen der Stadtverwaltung Untätigkeit vor.
The citizens accused the city administration of inaction.
'Untätigkeit' (inaction) is a formal-register word. It is often found in politics, in the news, or in official reports to express criticism of a lack of action.
Der Bericht kritisiert die Untätigkeit der Behörden.
The report criticizes the inaction of the authorities.
idleness
Nichtstun and Untätigkeit both refer to a lack of activity. Nichtstun works well when someone simply has nothing to do and may even enjoy this state. Untätigkeit sounds more formal and often emphasizes that someone fails to act despite a necessary response.
Während des Notfalls wurde Mias Untätigkeit von ihren Kollegen kritisiert.
During the emergency, Mia's inaction was criticized by her colleagues.
Am freien Nachmittag genoss Mia das Nichtstun auf dem Sofa.
Mia enjoyed doing nothing on the sofa that afternoon off.
