Definitions

incapable

[in-key-puh-buhl] / ɪnˈkeɪ pə bəl /

ADJECTIVE

not adequate; helpless

Synonyms

STRONGEST

impotent inadequate incompetent ineffective ineligible naive powerless unable unfit unqualified unsuited weak

WEAK

butterfingers disqualified feeble inept inexperienced inexpert inproficient insufficient losing not equal to not up to poor uncool unequipped unskilled unskillful

Antonyms

STRONGEST

able adequate capable competent effective experienced fit potent qualified ready skillful strong sufficient suitable

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.

"A society that is incapable of protecting its own children is a society which will one day start turning against itself."

From BBC • Jun. 5, 2026

Short seller Iceberg Research alleged in late 2024 that the first facility was a tiny lab incapable of mass production, providing photos and floor plans to support its claim.

From Barron's • May 11, 2026

But I also understand the rage of taxpayers who wonder why Los Angeles City Hall is so incapable of managing the basics.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 18, 2026

Vance, though, is clearly incapable of such a spontaneous response.

From Salon • Apr. 1, 2026

Wearied by all they had gone through, the sodden rabbits crouched without talking, incapable of any feeling but a dull relief and without even the energy to wonder what was going to happen next.

From "Watership Down: A Novel" by Richard Adams

Vocabulary lists containing incapable

The Watsons Go to Birmingham

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"To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee, Chapters 12–15

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A Wrinkle in Time

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