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.

Jackie, who did not join the court fight to have access to her father, was not able to visit him during the three years before his death, the Catherine Falk Foundation website said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 29, 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

"Since the labour-intensive sectors are small and micro units with only a little working capital, they are not able to cope with the shortages," said economist Arun Kumar.

From BBC • Apr. 28, 2026

In Florida, a medical power of attorney authorizes your brother to make medical decisions on your mother’s behalf if she were not able to do so.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 25, 2026

The mural itself had been damaged in spots by all the wallpapering done over it, so she was not able to make out the artist’s signature.

From "The Hidden Gallery" by Maryrose Wood

not able

Example Sentences

Related Words