unable

adjective

un·​able ˌən-ˈā-bəl How to pronounce unable (audio)
Synonyms of unablenext
: not able : incapable: such as
a
: unqualified, incompetent
b
: impotent, helpless

Synonyms of unable

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Examples of unable in a Sentence

I was unable to afford the trip. He was unable to play tennis after the injury.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Dwindling supplies of lifesaving medication In Tucson, María Chacon has been caring for her son Jesus for almost five years since a car accident at 17 left him unable to breathe on his own. — Mikella Schuettler, Los Angeles Times, 12 Oct. 2026 Penix was unable to finish the game after taking a shot to the ribs late in the fourth quarter. — Austin Perry Outkick, FOXNews.com, 12 Oct. 2026 But inside, Sweeney’s vision triumphed over Wright’s, who, despite many passionate memos, was unable to convince Harry to interfere. — Wendy S. Walters, Architectural Digest, 12 Oct. 2026 But at his worst, Willis has been a mess - error-prone, inaccurate, unable at times to spot open receivers. — Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 11 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unable

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unable was in the 14th century

Rhymes for unable

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Browse Nearby Words

unability
unable
Una boat
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Cite this Entry

“Unable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unable. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

unable

adjective
un·​able ˌən-ˈā-bəl How to pronounce unable (audio)
ˈən-
: not able : incapable
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