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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.

Exxon said it’s unable to comment on how long until the two trains return to normal.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 8, 2026

A ceremony is due to take place later this year, while the RFU has issued a call-out for help reaching families of another 28 players they have been unable to contact.

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026

Six major vessels and four smaller ones are currently unable to sail, causing widespread disruption to west coast routes.

From BBC • Apr. 7, 2026

They sold out so quickly that Reese’s mother posted on social media that even she was unable to snag one in time.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 7, 2026

Up until this moment, Cornwall Capital had been unable to see why Bear Stearns, and no one else, had been so eager to sell them insurance on CDOs.

From "The Big Short" by Michael Lewis