Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˌɪnɪˈlɪdʒəˌbɪləti/

Definitions

• The state of being ineligible; the condition of not being qualified or permitted to participate or be selected.
• The inability to meet the required standards or criteria for a specific position, privilege, or benefit.

Usage Examples

• His ineligibility to vote was due to his criminal record.
• The athlete’s ineligibility for the competition was confirmed by the governing body.
• She faced ineligibility for financial aid because of her academic performance.

Etymology

From the prefix "in-" meaning "not" and "eligibility," which comes from the Latin word "eligibilis," meaning "that can be chosen." The term "ineligibility" has been used in legal and formal contexts since the 16th century to describe the condition of being disqualified or not meeting necessary qualifications.

Synonyms

• Disqualification
• Unfitness
• Unqualified
• Exclusion
• Disability

Antonyms

• Eligibility
• Qualification
• Suitability
• Fitness
• Acceptance

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In British English, the emphasis is typically placed on the third syllable "ɪ," while in American English, the stress can shift to the second syllable.
• In Indian English, the "ɪ" sound in "ineligibility" may be slightly more pronounced compared to other English variants.

Historical Usage

The concept of "ineligibility" has existed in legal and societal contexts for centuries, particularly in the areas of voting, employment, and sports. In the 17th and 18th centuries, laws and systems were being formalized in many countries, and ineligibility often referred to a person's legal disqualification from holding office or participating in civic duties. Over time, the term has expanded to include many other spheres of life, from education to competitions.

Cultural Nuances

In many societies, ineligibility carries a stigma, often associated with failure, lack of ability, or personal shortcomings. However, in some cases, it can reflect a broader societal system of checks and balances, such as eligibility rules in government, law, or professional sports. The idea of ineligibility is also often examined in the context of fairness, meritocracy, and equality.

More Information

Ineligibility is a concept that has wide-reaching implications across various sectors, from politics to entertainment. Its application varies depending on the criteria in question, but generally, it refers to a situation where a person or entity is deemed unqualified to participate in a given process. Ineligibility often functions as a safeguard to ensure fairness and that the right standards are met for particular roles, responsibilities, or benefits.