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

He added the health board were "unable to determine with certainty whether the rash could have been prevented".

From BBC ● Sep. 30, 2026

The crisis erupted in mid-September when several funds said they were unable to satisfy investor redemption demands, sending Istanbul's main stock exchange tumbling.

From Barron's ● Sep. 30, 2026

The BBC is unable to report from Tigray and surrounding areas and it is difficult to find out what is happening because communications to the region have been cut.

From BBC ● Sep. 30, 2026

The family had to be evacuated and is still unable to return, the family’s lawyer said.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 29, 2026

Cornwall was now totally exposed to the possibility that Bear Stearns would be unable to pay off its gambling debts.

From "The Big Short" by Michael Lewis

unable

Example Sentences

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