unable

[uhn-ay-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.

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unable

People with low lactase levels are unable to absorb lactose in large quantities and are referred to as lactose malabsorbers.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 12, 2026

SAL also urged the court to view Seaver’s assertion that he had been unable to find legal representation “with considerable skepticism.”

From MarketWatch ● Oct. 12, 2026

The woman said prisoners often only saw their family for 45 minutes a week but were currently unable to shower in advance.

From BBC ● Oct. 10, 2026

At a press conference on Wednesday, Pike's lawyers said she was shackled to the bed and suffering from pneumonia, significant swelling on her arms, and was unable to swallow.

From BBC ● Oct. 10, 2026

Indeed, there had only been one time during all Penelope’s student days in which she had been unable to complete an assignment, and the memory of it still made her itch.

From "The Interrupted Tale" by Maryrose Wood

unable

Example Sentences

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