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.

Unable to sell at home, China’s auto companies are looking to sell elsewhere.

From MarketWatch • Jul. 1, 2026

Unable to launch major offensive operations on the front, Russia has taken to launching infiltration operations: sending small groups of soldiers behind enemy lines to hold key positions until reinforcements arrive.

From Barron's • Jun. 14, 2026

Unable to get her to go places that I would enjoy as much as her, I started going by myself.

From Salon • Jun. 1, 2026

Unable to ship petroleum and liquefied natural gas it had bought from the region, Vitol had to find replacements to send to customers.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 12, 2026

Unable to hide the truth any longer, the world's leaders announce that the sun is experiencing a cycle of dimming, and that its light and heat will continue to diminish.

From "We Are the Ants" by Shaun David Hutchinson

unable

Example Sentences

Related Words