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.
If unable to escape, face the shore and call or wave for help. Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 5 July 2025 And he’s become a beloved visitor to almost every continent, even though unable to return to his homeland. Pico Iyer, Time, 5 July 2025 Without adequate reserve funding, a hospital or nursing home is unable to function in the event of a downturn in reimbursements. Steve Brozak, Forbes.com, 4 July 2025 Police then conducted a search with personnel and a cadaver dog, but were unable to find any other remains. Kimberlee Speakman, People.com, 4 July 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 11 Jul. 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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