Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Lacking the necessary power, strength, or resources to do something: Describes a state where someone or something does not have the capability, means, or authority to perform a specific action or function.
   • Lacking the necessary mental or physical ability: Describes an inherent or temporary incapacity that prevents an action.
   • Not having the required skill or knowledge: Indicates a deficiency in know-how or expertise that makes an action impossible.

Usage

The word "unable" is almost always followed by an infinitive verb phrase beginning with "to" (e.g., unable to see, unable to work). It describes a state of incapacity. It is more formal than "can't" but is commonly used in both written and spoken English to express impossibility due to a lack of ability, means, or opportunity.

Examples

• Basic Usage:

  • She was unable to attend the meeting due to illness.
  • The old bridge is unable to support heavy trucks.
  • I am unable to answer your question without more information.

• With Different Contexts:

  • Physical/Mental Ability: After the accident, he was unable to walk for months.
  • Lack of Means: They were unable to buy a house because of high prices.
  • Lack of Authority (Legal/Formal): As a junior clerk, he was unable to authorize the payment.

Advanced Usage

• "Unable" in Formal or Legal Contexts: Often used to denote a lack of legal power or authority.

  • The committee was unable to reach a decision, so the matter was tabled.
  • The agent, acting outside his scope, was unable to bind the company to the contract.

• "Find oneself unable to": A phrase used to express a realized or discovered incapacity.

  • He found himself unable to speak when he saw the surprise.

Variants and Related Words

• Inability (noun): The state of being unable.
  • His inability to focus was affecting his work.
• Disable (verb): To make someone unable to do something, often by injury or system restriction.
  • The virus can disable critical computer functions.
• Enabled (adjective): The opposite state; having the ability or means to do something.
  • The new software feature is now enabled for all users.

Synonyms

• Incapable: Lacking the necessary quality or ability (often more permanent or inherent than "unable").
  • He is incapable of telling a lie.
• Powerless: Lacking power or authority.
  • She felt powerless to change the situation.
• Impracticable: Not able to be done or put into practice successfully.
  • The plan was impracticable given our budget.

Antonyms

• Able: Having the power, skill, or means to do something.
  • She is able to solve complex problems quickly.
• Capable: Having the ability, fitness, or quality necessary to do something.
  • He is a very capable manager.

Adjective

1. lacking in power or forcefulness
   • an ineffectual ruler
   • like an unable phoenix in hot ashes
2. (usually followed by `to') lacking necessary physical or mental ability
   • dyslexics are unable to learn to read adequately
   • the sun was unable to melt enough snow
3. (usually followed by `to') not having the necessary means or skill or know-how
   • unable to get to town without a car
   • unable to obtain funds