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Showing results for unable. Search instead for unable/2.
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.

Ian, 52, said this election would mark the first time he was unable to vote since 1992.

From BBC • May 5, 2026

It’s been derided as unwieldy and ugly and unable to match other pickups in basic functionality.

From Los Angeles Times • May 5, 2026

Caine said there are currently "22,500 mariners embarked on more than 1,550 commercial vessels trapped in the Arabian Gulf, unable to transit."

From Barron's • May 5, 2026

Many farmers are still waiting on loans, unable to lock in fertilizer prices before they spiked.

From MarketWatch • May 4, 2026

Friends provided Corrie a “retirement” house in Orange County, California, but of course, even bedridden and for the last five years unable to speak, Corrie never stopped witnessing to God’s love.

From "The Hiding Place" by Corrie ten Boom