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.

He was unable to train that day because he had not had time to collect his kit after finishing work at a papaya plantation.

From Barron's • Jun. 3, 2026

MarketWatch was unable to reach McIngvale for comment.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 2, 2026

Calanche also found she was unable to vote in person Monday after election workers couldn’t find her information, according to her political consultant, David Meraz.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 2, 2026

“We are unable to work with that insurance plan anymore,” a Perfect Child representative said in an April 2024 phone call, according to a recording reviewed by the Journal.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 2, 2026

I paced away from Regan and then paced back, unable to stand still.

From "Glitch" by Laura Martin

unable

Example Sentences

Related Words