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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.

If Smart is unable to return in Doncic’s absence, the Lakers could shift even more ball-handling responsibility to Reaves and LeBron James while relying on Bronny James as an additional guard off the bench.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026

But it means that many pupils will be unable to access revision materials provided by their teachers online.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

One of them is unable to muster a genuine-looking smile and the other looks rightly embarrassed.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 2, 2026

The assumption here is that existing computers are unable to reverse-engineer a private key from a public key.

From Barron's • Apr. 1, 2026

I order a plate of biscuits and hash and then stare at them when they arrive, unable to remember the last time I ate in public, in a restaurant with other people.

From "The Brightwood Code" by Monica Hesse

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