Definitions

not able

ADJECTIVE

unable

Synonyms

STRONGEST

helpless impotent inadequate incapable powerless sidelined unfit weak

WEAK

can't cut it can't hack it can't make the grade clumsy hog-tied impuissant incapacitated incompetent ineffectual inefficacious inefficient inept inoperative no can do no good not cut out for not equal to not up to out of commission unfitted unqualified unskilled

Antonyms

STRONGEST

able capable competent fit potent qualified strong sufficient

WEAK

adequate skillful talented

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

On June 10, Commerzbank said it was not able to identify a single institutional investor that had tendered shares.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 25, 2026

"Or we might have someone with the potential to move on, but they are not able to use public transport."

From BBC • Jun. 24, 2026

“Caregivers miss work. They’re not able to take promotions. They have less in retirement savings and less in Social Security benefits. It’s kind of a plague.”

From MarketWatch • Jun. 16, 2026

Canadian immigration said they were not able to provide details on individual cases, adding that the safety of Canadian citizens was its priority.

From Barron's • Jun. 13, 2026

“We—I tried to contact Courtney, your mother, at the time, of course. But—I was not able to. In fact—” The pitch of her voice went up.

From "The Great Gilly Hopkins" by Katherine Paterson

not able

Example Sentences

Related Words