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.

This is a condition that costs the economy £12.5bn because it leaves women unable to work in addition to the healthcare costs, Dr Lucy Whittaker, an endometriosis researcher at the University of Edinburgh, told me.

From BBC • Jun. 1, 2026

The researchers were also unable to account for natural light exposure, which can affect melatonin levels in the body.

From Science Daily • May 30, 2026

Paris was unable to bring the United States aboard a joint declaration at last year's AI summit with 160 other countries.

From Barron's • May 29, 2026

“Furthermore, DWP will be unable to fully eliminate theft given the diffuse nature of the DWP system.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 29, 2026

Losing her losing her, not just being unable to see or talk to her.

From "The Wrong Way Home" by Kate O’Shaughnessy

unable

Example Sentences

Related Words