English

unable

ʌnˈeɪbəl
Meaning: lacking the skill, means, or opportunity to do something
Part of Speech: Adjective

Listen to pronunciation

Example sentences

He was unable to attend the meeting due to a family emergency.
He was unable to attend the meeting due to a family emergency.
She was unable to play because of her injured ankle.
She was unable to play because of her injured ankle.
Researchers were unable to replicate the results of the study.
Researchers were unable to replicate the results of the study.

Usage Notes

Often followed by an infinitive (to + verb). It is a more formal alternative to 'can't'.

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