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unable

Meaning in simple English, pronunciation and examples

Pronunciation: US /ʌnˈeɪbəl/

unable means: If you are like this, you cannot do something.

adjective

CANNOT DOB1

If you are like this, you cannot do something.

  • I am unable to help.
  • He was unable to walk after the accident.
  • We have been unable to contact her.

How to use it: unable to do something (She was unable to open the door.)

Similar words: incapable

Opposites: able

Common phrases: unable to attend, unable to work, unable to help

interjection

CANNOT COMPLYC2

Used over a radio to say that you cannot follow an instruction.

  • “Unable,” the pilot replied.
  • “Unable at present; our engine is overheating.”
  • “Unable due to low fuel; request another runway.”

Common phrases: unable due to, unable at present

Questions about unable

What does unable mean?

If you are like this, you cannot do something.

What is unable in other languages?

Türkçe: yapamaz · Español: incapaz · Français: incapable · Deutsch: unfähig · Italiano: incapace · 日本語: できない

How do you pronounce unable?

It is pronounced /ʌnˈeɪbəl/.

How do you use unable in a sentence?

I am unable to help. He was unable to walk after the accident.

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Phrases with unable

unable in other languages

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