Definitions

unable

[uhn-ey-buhl] / ʌnˈeɪ bəl /

ADJECTIVE

not having talent, skill

Synonyms

STRONGEST

helpless impotent inadequate incapable not able powerless sidelined unfit weak

WEAK

can't cut it can't hack it can't make the grade clumsy hog-tied impuissant incapacitated incompetent ineffectual inefficacious inefficient inept inoperative no can do no good not cut out for not equal to not up to out of commission unfitted unqualified unskilled

Antonyms

STRONGEST

able capable competent fit potent qualified strong sufficient

WEAK

adequate skillful talented

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Unable to get her to go places that I would enjoy as much as her, I started going by myself.

From Salon • Jun. 1, 2026

Unable to ship petroleum and liquefied natural gas it had bought from the region, Vitol had to find replacements to send to customers.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 12, 2026

Unable to work, she has lost her business and her driving licence was revoked because she is not safe to get behind the wheel.

From BBC • Mar. 30, 2026

Unable to run tours into North Korea, he has been offering trips through border areas so customers can catch glimpses into the secretive state from a distance.

From Barron's • Mar. 29, 2026

Unable to ignore her gloomy presence any longer, he finally asked, “What’s the matter with you? We been getting more calls? You can’t let them get to you.”

From "The Best of Enemies" by Osha Gray Davidson

unable

Example Sentences

Related Words