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.

Because he was incapable of envy, he was everyone’s biggest cheerleader.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 5, 2026

"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

I wanted to dispel the idea that we are incapable of having loving, meaningful relationships.

From Los Angeles Times • May 18, 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

I am envious of that, for I am incapable of misdeeds.

From "Scythe" by Neal Shusterman

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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