unable

[uhn-ey-buhl]

adjective

1. lacking the necessary power, competence, etc., to accomplish some specified act.

   He was unable to swim.

unable

/ ʌnˈeɪbəl /

adjective

1. lacking the necessary power, ability, or authority (to do something); not able

2. archaic,  incompetent

Word History and Origins

Origin of unable¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English; un- ¹ + able

Synonym Study

See incapable.

Example Sentences

A woman has said she is living in constant pain and is unable to breathe through her nose after having dental work in Turkey.

From BBC

Questioned about Mojica’s case in July, a Homeland Security spokesperson said they were unable to comment on cases “under active litigation.”

From Los Angeles Times

According to text exchanges with his roommate, the rifle had belonged to his grandfather at one point, and Robinson seemed concerned he would be unable to retrieve it.

From Los Angeles Times

Police Scotland said it was unable to confirm the arrests.

From BBC

Mr Hayes, who also suffered serious injuries, confronted the attacker and, although unable to overpower him, distracted him from attacking others for "vital seconds", he said.

From BBC

Related Words

• helpless 
• impotent 
• inadequate 
• incapable 
• not able 
• powerless 
• sidelined www.thesaurus.com
• unfit 
• weak