States & Feedback

Disabled State

A disabled state shows that a control is visible but cannot currently be used.

Also called DisabledInactive stateGrayed outNot clickable

Visual Example

Submit

Plain Definition

Disabled states communicate that an action exists but is not currently available.

You Might Describe This As...

  • "Grayed out"
  • "Not clickable"

Fast lookup

You May Also Mean

Disabled State is often mixed up with Loading State because the patterns can organize or reveal similar content in different ways.

Loading State

Check the name, visual cue, and typical use.

What It Is Used For

  • Preventing submit until required fields are filled
  • Showing unavailable actions
  • Pausing controls during loading

Example User Phrasing

  • "Disable the submit button until the form is valid."
  • "Gray out actions that are not available."