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.

“We are unable to work with that insurance plan anymore,” a Perfect Child representative said in an April 2024 phone call, according to a recording reviewed by the Journal.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 2, 2026

Unused to staying in a strange place, Dracula kept jumping off the bed and back on again, unable to get situated.

From Salon • Jun. 1, 2026

With no mention of children, I understand that you are concerned about your future if and/or when you become unable to live independently.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 1, 2026

And despite dominating possession, PSG were unable to fashion many clear chances for their feared front three of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Ousmane Dembele and Desire Doue, with Arsenal's defence largely keeping them under control.

From BBC • May 30, 2026

“It would take a lot out of a person, even their own control over their magic. You were unable to demand a fair bargain for your gold. You couldn’t even name a price.”

From "Rump: The (Fairly) True Story of Rumpelstilskin" by Liesl Shurtliff

unable

Example Sentences

Related Words