Synonyms
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
Authorities warned Friday that roads have collapsed in some areas, with emergency services unable to get access.
—
Lauren Kent, CNN, 1 Nov. 2024
Abdallahi remains in the hospital and has been unable to speak with law enforcement as of Thursday, said Larry Snelling, superintendent of the Chicago Police Department.
—Christopher Cann, USA TODAY, 1 Nov. 2024
Cannon and his kids gathered around beside Peppa in the picture, although the little ones were unable to successfully pose for the camera.
—Emma Aerin Becker, People.com, 1 Nov. 2024
Burnout and Attrition As in any scenario where employees feel unheard, unsupported, and unable to provide quality work — burnout and attrition rates increase.
—Adaira Landry, Forbes, 1 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for unable 
Lauren Kent, CNN, 1 Nov. 2024
Abdallahi remains in the hospital and has been unable to speak with law enforcement as of Thursday, said Larry Snelling, superintendent of the Chicago Police Department.
—Christopher Cann, USA TODAY, 1 Nov. 2024
Cannon and his kids gathered around beside Peppa in the picture, although the little ones were unable to successfully pose for the camera.
—Emma Aerin Becker, People.com, 1 Nov. 2024
Burnout and Attrition As in any scenario where employees feel unheard, unsupported, and unable to provide quality work — burnout and attrition rates increase.
—Adaira Landry, Forbes, 1 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for unable
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'unable.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near unable
Cite this Entry
“Unable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unable. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
unable
adjective
un·able
ˌən-ˈā-bəl 
ˈən-
: not able : incapable
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