unable
word
/əˈneɪbəɫ/
uhn-AY-buhl
/ʌnˈeɪbəl/
uhn-AY-buhl
Definition
If someone is unable to do something, they cannot do it because they lack the ability, opportunity, time, or permission. It is a common way to say that something is not possible for a person in a certain situation.
Usage & Nuances
Usually followed by 'to' + verb: 'unable to attend', 'unable to help'. It is more formal and neutral than 'can't'. Often used in emails, notices, and polite explanations: 'We are unable to process your request.'
Spanish: incapaz de - no poderPortuguese (BR): incapaz de - não conseguirPortuguese (PT): incapaz de - não conseguirChinese (Simplified): 不能的 - 无法Chinese (Traditional): 不能的 - 無法Hindi: असमर्थ - नहीं कर पाने वालाArabic: غير قادر على - عاجز عنBengali: অক্ষম - অক্ষমতা আছে - করতে অপারগRussian: не в состоянии - не может (формально)Japanese: できない - 不可能なVietnamese: không thể - không có khả năngKorean: 할 수 없는 - 불가능한Turkish: yapamayan - olanaksızUrdu: قادر نہیں - نااہلIndonesian: tidak dapat - tidak mampu
Example Sentences
I am unable to open the door.
basic
She was unable to come today.
basic
We are unable to find your bag.
basic
I'm unable to make it tonight, but let's reschedule.
natural
Due to a system error, we are unable to process payments right now.
natural
He seemed unable to say what was really bothering him.
natural