Unable

Definition

Unable is an adjective used to describe the state of being incapable of doing something or lacking the ability to perform an action.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ʌnˈeɪ.bəl/
• Respelling: un-AY-buhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ʌnˈeɪ.bəl/
• Respelling: un-AY-buhl

Etymology

The word "unable" originates from Middle English "unable," combining "un-" (a prefix meaning "not") and "able," derived from Old French "habile" and Latin "habilis," meaning "capable" or "fit."

Derivatives

• Unableness (noun)
• Unablely (adverb, archaic)
• Reunable (adjective, rare)
• Disunable (adjective, obsolete)
• Unabled (adjective, rare)

Synonyms

• Incapable
• Powerless
• Inept

Antonyms

• Capable
• Able
• Competent

Usage

The adjective "unable" is used to describe a lack of capacity or skill. For example, "He was unable to attend the meeting due to illness." It is often used in contexts where someone or something cannot perform a specific task or action.

Related Terms

• Ability: The power or skill to do something.
• Inability: The state of being unable to perform an action.
• Capability: The quality of being able to do something.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Lacking the ability or capacity to do something: Refers to the state of not being capable.
  • Example: "She was unable to lift the heavy box by herself."
• Not able to perform a specific task or action: Emphasizes the impossibility of accomplishing a particular goal.
  • Example: "The system was unable to process the request due to an error."