"out of action" 的定义和意义

What is the origin of the idiom "out of action" and when to use it?

The idiom "out of action" originated in the early 20th century, drawing its roots from military terminology. It refers to the state of being unavailable or unable to function due to damage, injury, or temporary removal from service. Originally used to describe soldiers who were incapacitated or unable to participate in combat, the phrase has since expanded to include a broader range of contexts. It is now used to refer to situations where objects, systems, or individuals are rendered inactive, non-operational, or unable to perform their intended functions.