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Inactivity in Irish (Neamhghníomhaíocht): Meaning, Pronunciation, Usage

‘neamhghníomhaíocht’ also means: passivity

The Irish for inactivity is neamhghníomhaíocht, a feminine noun.
Updated October 2026Report a mistake

How to say “inactivity” in Irish

Irish:
neamhghníomhaíocht
English:
inactivity, passivity
Word type:
noun
Gender:
feminine
Pronunciation:
“NYOW-yee-vee-ukht”  /ˈnʲaũˌjiːvˠiːəxt̪ˠ/
Various forms
Genitive singular:
neamhghníomhaíochta, na neamhghníomhaíochta (e.g. tréimhse neamhghníomhaíochta, a period of inactivity)

What does “neamhghníomhaíocht” mean?

“Neamhghníomhaíocht” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.

inactivity
The state of not being active or not taking any action.Also: inaction, idleness, inertia.
1 other meaning: passivity
2passivity
A passive attitude, accepting things without acting or responding.Also: passiveness, lethargy.

Other Irish words for inactivity: díomhaointeas (idleness)

“Neamhghníomhaíocht” with the article

Here is neamhghníomhaíocht after the article (an t-alt).

an neamhghníomhaíocht
the inactivity
No change after an

“Neamhghníomhaíocht” in a sentence: Irish examples

Common Irish sentences using neamhghníomhaíocht, the Irish word for inactivity.

Is cúis imní í neamhghníomhaíocht an Rialtais.
The Government's inaction is a cause for concern.
Cáineadh an chomhairle as a neamhghníomhaíocht.
The council was criticised for its inactivity.
Tá baint ag neamhghníomhaíocht le go leor galar.
Inactivity is linked to many diseases.
Bhí tréimhse fhada neamhghníomhaíochta aige tar éis na timpiste.
He had a long period of inactivity after the accident.
Ní féidir an neamhghníomhaíocht seo a sheasamh níos faide.
This inaction cannot be tolerated any longer.
Cuireann neamhghníomhaíocht fhisiciúil le meáchan breise.
Physical inactivity contributes to extra weight.
Tá an páirtí i ndiaidh bliana de neamhghníomhaíocht.
The party is coming out of a year of inactivity.

Other nouns in Irish

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Inactivity in Irish: frequently asked questions

What is the Irish for inactivity?

The Irish for inactivity is neamhghníomhaíocht (pronounced “NYOW-yee-vee-ukht”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean passivity.

How do you pronounce neamhghníomhaíocht in Irish?

Neamhghníomhaíocht is said like “NYOW-yee-vee-ukht” (IPA /ˈnʲaũˌjiːvˠiːəxt̪ˠ/).

Does neamhghníomhaíocht have a plural?

No plural form is given for neamhghníomhaíocht in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.

Does neamhghníomhaíocht have more than one meaning?

Yes. Neamhghníomhaíocht can mean inactivity or passivity, depending on context; the first is the most common.

What is the opposite of neamhghníomhaíocht?

The opposite is gníomhaíocht, meaning activity; the prefix neamh- negates it, just like English in- or non-.

Is neamhghníomhaíocht the same as díomhaointeas?

Not quite: díomhaointeas means idleness or having nothing to do, while neamhghníomhaíocht stresses a failure or absence of action, often in formal or official contexts.

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