powerless

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Against that backdrop, he was powerless to prevent Andy Burnham contesting the by-election triggered in Makerfield in Greater Manchester to give him a chance to return to Westminster and take over as Labour leader.

From BBC • Jun. 26, 2026

People shared consistent reasons for this: the news put them in a bad mood, they felt overwhelmed and powerless to act.

From Science Daily • Jun. 16, 2026

The point is the feeling his creates, the paranoia that the average person is powerless against such dark forces.

From Salon • May 24, 2026

The family member who contacted Brand also wants the painting returned to the Goudstikker heirs, but the police are powerless as the theft has passed the statute of limitations.

From Barron's • May 11, 2026

One type of damage that revival centers are powerless to undo.

From "Scythe" by Neal Shusterman