WordGarden.iounable
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /ʌnˈeɪbəl/
US
- /əˈneɪbəl/
Meanings
Adjective
not able to do something
Beyond the definition
To be unable means not being able to do something because of a limit, a condition, or a lack of strength or skill. It is more than just not wanting to do something; it means that, at that moment, the thing truly cannot be done. A tiny kitten is unable to defend itself against a large dog. Someone recovering from surgery might be unable to lift heavy objects. Sometimes this is temporary, such as when you are unable to find your keys, and sometimes it lasts much longer, like when someone is unable to speak because of an injury. It is a word about real limits, whether they are physical, mental, or caused by the situation.
The word unable describes a state of lacking the capacity or power to perform a specific action. It goes beyond simply being unwilling; it signifies a functional barrier. Think of a bird with a broken wing—it is unable to fly, not merely choosing to stay on the ground.
Unable often refers to physical limitations: "He was unable to walk after the accident." However, it can just as easily describe mental or emotional constraints: "She felt unable to express her feelings." It also applies to situations where external factors prevent success: "They were unable to reach their destination due to the storm."
The word frequently carries a sense of regret or professional distance. Someone might say, "I am unable to accept your invitation," implying they might wish to attend but are prevented by a prior commitment. In this sense, it is often more formal and more definite than the contraction "can't."
Grammatically, you will frequently see unable paired with linking verbs like "be" or "feel," which highlight the subject's state of lacking capacity. For example, "The rescue team was unable to save everyone," or "I feel unable to continue this conversation." It is also commonly used in legal and medical contexts to describe someone who cannot act, work, or decide in the usual way. Ultimately, when something is beyond your reach, whether because of force, circumstance, or an inherent limitation, you are unable to accomplish it.
Examples
- 1
Physical ability
After the accident, he was unable to walk without pain.
- 2
Scheduling
I'm unable to meet on Friday, but I'm free next week.
- Usagebe unable to ...
a common, slightly more formal way to say "can't ..."
- 3
Customer records
We were unable to find your booking in the system.
- 4
Nervous reaction
She was so nervous that she was unable to speak.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Affordability
Many families are unable to afford the higher rent.
- 6
Technical connection
My laptop was unable to connect to the hotel Wi-Fi.
- 7
Aviation
Due to heavy fog, the pilot was unable to land the plane.
- 8
Polite notice
If you are unable to attend, please let us know by email.
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- unableadjective