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.

Wilson said his residency documents had expired in 2021 and he had been unable to renew them.

From BBC • Jul. 1, 2026

Patricia Avila said in the complaint that she suffered emotional distress and had been unable to work as a result of the incident.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 1, 2026

After sales peaked in 2023 at 1.8 million vehicles, the company has been unable to match that performance.

From MarketWatch • Jul. 1, 2026

However, Asia was unable to continue to the bullish run.

From Barron's • Jul. 1, 2026

I imagined Ma at fifteen or sixteen years old, unable to read or write, searching for a matchmaker.

From "The Red Car to Hollywood" by Jennie Liu

unable

Example Sentences

Related Words