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View synonyms for

unable

[ uhn-ey-buhl ]

adjective

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

    He was unable to swim.



unable

/ ʌˈɪə /

adjective

  1. postpositivefoll byto lacking the necessary power, ability, or authority (to do something); not able
  2. archaic.
    incompetent
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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Word History and Origins

Origin of unable1

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

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

Experts on the ground there say people are unable to manage the risks posed by asbestos or dust inhalation due to the more immediate dangers of Israel's military offensive.

From

But with the Post Office unable to directly inspect the system which processed transactions, it accepted assurances from Fujitsu that the system was working correctly.

From

Some customers also questioned that, with one person saying after receiving their email, "store staff said they are unable to retrieve the item"

From

Aimee testified, and perhaps for the first time in her life, was unable to use her words to sway an audience.

From

She said that if her practice can no longer provide NHS dental care, there will be "vulnerable groups" unable to access a dentist.

From

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