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.
activity / occupation
'die Tätigkeit' and 'die Untätigkeit' stand in clear contrast to each other. 'Tätigkeit' means that someone does something or acts actively. 'Untätigkeit', on the other hand, means that someone does nothing or fails to act, even though a response may be needed. 'Untätigkeit' often sounds critical because there is an expectation that someone should become active. So the difference is simple: Tätigkeit is action, Untätigkeit is doing nothing.
Die Untätigkeit der Leitung hat viele Mitarbeiter verärgert.
The management's inaction annoyed many employees.
Nach dem Kurs sucht Mehmet eine praktische Tätigkeit im sozialen Bereich.
After the course, Mehmet is looking for a practical activity in the social sector.