unable

adjective

un·​able ˌən-ˈā-bəl How to pronounce unable (audio)
Synonyms of unablenext
: 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.
Salazar was identified as the suspect shortly after the shooting, which happened on May 7, 2023, but deputies were unable to locate him. Dean Fioresi, CBS News, 25 Jan. 2026 Many parents might be unable to independently read medical literature and evidence to evaluate risks and benefits for their children. Judy Stone, Forbes.com, 24 Jan. 2026 Villa Park freshman Jorden Salem battled foul trouble for most of the game and was unable to leave an imprint on the outcome. David Delgado, Oc Register, 24 Jan. 2026 While some may argue that defending Americans from nuclear missiles is worth that expense, the reality is that the Golden Dome will be unable to defend the entire homeland. Morgan Chalfant, semafor.com, 23 Jan. 2026 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 26 Jan. 2026.

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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