unable — not having the ability, skill, or means to do something
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: not having the ability, skill, or means to do something
Pronunciation (IPA): /ʌnˈeɪbəl/
Example Sentences
- My grandma is unable to use a smartphone but she's a master at using chopsticks.
- I was unable to solve the math problem, so I asked my calculator for help.
- The company was unable to meet the deadline for the project.
unable
ADJECTIVE[/ʌnˈeɪbəl/]
not having the ability, skill, or means to do something
not having the ability, skill, or means to do something
Unable to untangle the cable on the table!
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Emerged in the mid-14th century from the combination of the prefix un- (meaning 'not') and able, which derives from Latin habilis meaning 'easily handled' or 'manageable'. The term literally expresses the negation of capability or capacity.
Breakdown
un- (not) + able (capable of, from Latin habilis meaning 'easily handled')
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My grandma is unable to use a smartphone but she's a master at using chopsticks.”
“I was unable to solve the math problem, so I asked my calculator for help.”
“The company was unable to meet the deadline for the project.”
“Due to heavy traffic, we were unable to arrive on time.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related
Want to master 19,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.