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

It was a troubling and ominous blow Sunday to a franchise that’s in a constant state of reshuffling its offensive line and unable to sufficiently protect quarterback Justin Herbert.

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Cunha's £62.5m transfer was a club record, after United triggered his release clause, but Wolves have been unable to replace his 15 goals and all-round talent.

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For many years, scientists could study them only through genetic data because existing imaging techniques were unable to reveal their complex internal structures.

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The Palace was unable to confirm or deny whether the introduction with the two men took place.

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The teenager, suffering from depression, had been unable to tidy up herself.

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Related Words

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