The difference between Unfähigkeit and Unvermögen

The difference between Unfähigkeit and Unvermögen

The two German words Unfähigkeit and Unvermögen have the similar meaning i.e. inability, incapacity etc. However, they are not the exact synonyms.

The difference is that the Unfähigkeit refers to the lack of skill, absence of competence, or the inability of a person in himself. It stresses on the lack of general skill, talent or qualification. It is more sharp and negative in tone.

z.B.: Die Unfähigkeit des Fahrer war schuld am Unfall.

(the incompetence of the driver caused the accident)

Seine Unfähigkeit zu führen ist offensichtlich.

(his inability to lead is obvious)

On the other hand, Unvermögen denotes the failure to do something in a given situation. It need not be due to ones natural inability, rather it could be due to the situation or circumstance.

z.B.:

Sein Unvermögen, rechtzeitig zu handeln, führte zu Problemen.

(his inability to act on time led to the problem)

Note:

Once we say some has Unfähighkeit, it is more insulting, like he or she is not capable at all. Whereas, when we say he or she is Unvermögen, it is more about his or her inability due the circumstance or he or she could not do in that case only.