Inoperable

Inoperable is an adjective describing something that cannot be operated, controlled, or activated. It is commonly used to indicate that an operation or intervention cannot be performed, either because it is unsafe, not feasible, or not effective given the circumstances. The term can apply to medical conditions, devices, systems, or machinery.

In medical contexts, inoperable often refers to conditions that cannot be safely or effectively treated by surgery. For example, an inoperable tumor may be unresectable due to its size, location near vital structures, diffuse spread, or the patient’s overall health. Being inoperable does not necessarily imply that there is no treatment available; rather, non-surgical approaches such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapies, or palliative care may be pursued. The designation can change over time with advances in techniques or new therapies.

Outside medicine, inoperable describes equipment, devices, or systems that cannot be started, controlled, or used. This can result from design limitations, mechanical failure, or safety restrictions. Inoperable components may require repair, replacement, or decommissioning.

Etymology-wise, inoperable is formed from the prefix in- meaning not, plus operable, itself deriving from Latin operabilis, “able to be operated.” Related terms include operable, nonfunctional, or irreparable, depending on context.