not able

ADJECTIVE

unable

Synonyms

STRONGEST

helpless impotent inadequate incapable 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.

It keeps working when I’m not able to.

From MarketWatch • May 12, 2026

The airline said it was unfortunately not able to reimburse guests for other related costs such as emergency hotel stays or replacement flights associated with cancelled trips.

From BBC • May 2, 2026

“Unfortunately, we’re not able to compel any action of an independent, sovereign government,” Wakefield replied.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 30, 2026

“You start to spin, and spin, and spin. But you sit in the eye—you’re not able to stretch and feel the whole thing.”

From Slate • Apr. 29, 2026

At the time, Geyer wrote, “I was not able to appreciate the intense significance of the renting of the Poplar Street house and the delivery of a stove of such immense size.”

From "The Devil in the White City" by Erik Larson

not able

Example Sentences

Related Words