unable

adjective

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

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.
The panic began when a pilot reportedly heard knocking on the cockpit door and was unable to contact his crew. Angel Saunders, PEOPLE, 22 Oct. 2025 The best way to reclaim our digital experiences, though, might be to stick with the likes of TextEdit, software that is unable to do anything except follow our commands. Kyle Chayka, New Yorker, 22 Oct. 2025 Dozens of unable-to-fly wild ducks and geese at a sanctuary in Washtenaw County's Salem Township, earlier ordered killed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, have received a reprieve. Keith Matheny, Freep.com, 22 Oct. 2025 If the Tigers are unable to stop their losing skid, the school will likely be forced to continue some difficult conversations about its program leader. Matt Audilet, MSNBC Newsweek, 22 Oct. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Unable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unable. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

unable

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

More from Merriam-Webster on unable

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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