INCAPABLE Synonyms: 56 Similar and Opposite Words

incapable

adjective

(ˌ)in-ˈkā-pə-bəl

Definition of incapable

as in unfit

lacking qualities (as knowledge, skill, or ability) required to do a job hired a supremely incapable assistant who only made a mess of things

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of incapable McAdam later said Dominguez was incapable of understanding that his acts were morally and legally wrong. — Darrell Smith, Sacbee.com, 20 Aug. 2026 The Molotov cocktails that English brought to the Capitol appeared to be incapable of igniting, the judge noted. — Michael Kunzelman, Fortune, 19 Aug. 2026 His costly miscalculation exploded into a life-and-death war fiasco that an incompetent and dishonest administration is now incapable of ending. — Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 15 Aug. 2026 The notion is that children are both uniquely vulnerable to trafficking or other mistreatment and incapable of navigating their way through the byzantine immigration system without legal help. — Ruth Marcus, New Yorker, 15 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for incapable

Recent Examples of Synonyms for incapable

Adjective

At the Premier League’s semi-regular meetings between heads of recruitment some have argued that the five-step process is outdated and unfit for purpose.

— Jordan Campbell, New York Times, 14 Sep. 2026
But in Meriwether’s hands, the show became a propulsive exploration of both women’s trauma and the misogynistic criminal justice system that’s unfit to deal with it.

— Joy Press, Vanity Fair, 31 Aug. 2026

Definition of unfit

Adjective

Here, Rodel shares how to make the unfitted kitchen trend your own, one statement-worthy piece at a time.

— Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 May 2025
Mix Materials The beauty in the unfitted kitchen aesthetic is found in its collected look.

— Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 May 2025