Maktesløs

Maktesløs is a Norwegian word that translates directly to "powerless" or "helpless" in English. It describes a state of lacking power, influence, or ability to act effectively in a given situation. The term can refer to a physical inability to exert force, or a broader feeling of being unable to change or control circumstances.

Meaning and Usage:

• Lack of Power: At its core, maktesløs indicates an absence of strength or capacity to achieve a desired outcome. This could relate to physical strength, political influence, or control over resources.

• Helplessness: The word conveys a sense of being unable to help oneself or others. This can stem from a situation being beyond one's control, or from lacking the necessary skills or resources.

• Feeling of Impotence: Maktesløs often carries an emotional component, describing a feeling of frustration and despair caused by the inability to influence events or overcome obstacles. This emotional state can arise even if the individual technically possesses some degree of power, but perceives it as insufficient.

• Passive Role: Someone described as maktesløs typically occupies a passive position in a given context, subject to the actions and decisions of others or the forces of circumstance.

Grammatical Information:

• Part of Speech: Adjective
• Inflection: Maktesløs is inflected according to Norwegian grammatical rules. For example, the neuter form is maktesløst.

Synonyms:

While no single English word perfectly captures the nuances of maktesløs, close synonyms include:

• Powerless
• Helpless
• Impotent
• Defenseless
• Vulnerable
• Ineffective

Antonyms:

The antonyms of maktesløs reflect the presence of power and control. These include:

• Powerful
• Strong
• Influential
• Effective
• Capable