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Definitions

not able

ADJECTIVE
unable
Synonyms
STRONGEST
helpless impotent inadequate incapable 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.

Her kids are older, so everything changes and she’s not able to work her ass off the way she used to and she has to confront that.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 31, 2026

"We were not able and not willing, once again, to push the snooze button on this… it was a huge step for Germany, a huge step for the German population, definitely."

From BBC • Mar. 27, 2026

AFP is not able to access the sites of strikes nor independently verify tolls in Iran.

From Barron's • Mar. 23, 2026

You want to be a disruptor for reasons of progression, but you’re not able to.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 19, 2026

“Alas, I am of no use. I neither pray nor work,” I say, not able to disguise my bitterness.

From "Ophelia" by Lisa Klein

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