BharatNotes Inertia
noun/ɪnˈɜːʃə/
The property of matter by which a body remains at rest or continues in uniform motion in a straight line unless acted upon by an external force.
Usage in a UPSC answer
The reform foundered less on overt opposition than on bureaucratic inertia, as entrenched procedures and a risk-averse establishment quietly resisted every attempt to alter the status quo.
Synonyms
lethargytorporsluggishnesspassivitystagnationindolence
Antonyms
dynamismmomentumalacrityvigour
Word Family
inert (adj), inertial (adj), inertly (adv), inertness (n), inertial (adj)
Root
Latin inertia = inactivity; iners = idle, sluggish; in- = not + ars = skill, art
Etymology
From Latin inertia ("lack of skill, inactivity"), from iners ("idle, sluggish"), from in- ("not") + ars ("skill, art").
Memory Hook
Break it into in- ("not") + art ("skill/action") — one who is "in-ert" takes no action; inertia is the state of not acting, of staying put.
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