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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.

Shipments from Canada plunged last summer when producers there were unable to quickly recover the cost of rising tariffs from U.S. buyers through the market-determined delivery fee on aluminum.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 2, 2026

Citing low productivity, industrial decline and an ageing population, the institutes warned that Germany's economy would soon be unable to grow sustainably.

From Barron's • Apr. 1, 2026

There’s also a risk of a higher rate of elder poverty if people are unable to save what’s required, he said.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 1, 2026

Michelle Rees, 45, from Crynant, Neath Port Talbot, said the carer's allowance she received left her unable to afford to eat breakfast.

From BBC • Mar. 31, 2026

Still, some long-term believers stayed true to the cause, unable or unwilling to accept facts.

From "American Spirits" by Barb Rosenstock

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.