Out of action

Meaning

The idiom "out of action" means to be unable to work or perform a task due to physical or mental incapacity. It can also refer to a situation or event that prevents an individual or thing from functioning properly.

Usage

• After the accident, John was out of action for several weeks and was unable to return to work.
• The flu left Sarah out of action for two days, and she missed her important meeting.
• Due to a technical fault, the computer was out of action for three hours, disrupting our work.
• After undergoing surgery, Jane was out of action for six weeks and had to take time off from her job.
• The storm caused widespread damage, leaving many homes and businesses out of action for several days.

Roots and History

The phrase "out of action" dates back to the early 20th century and is believed to have originated in military terminology. In warfare, a soldier or unit that was unable to fight was considered "out of action". Over time, the phrase became more broadly used to refer to anyone who was unable to perform a task due to physical or mental incapacity.

Synonyms in English

• Unable to work
• Incapacitated
• Disabled
• Unfit for duty
• Out of order

Synonyms in other languages

• French - "Inactif"
• Spanish - "Inactivo"
• Italian - "Inattivo"
• German - "Inaktiv"
• Russian - "Неактивный"

Similar Idioms

• on the horizon

• old hat

• one cannot love and be wise