「unable」の定義と意味 - Dictionary.net

unable Definition & Meaning - Dictionary.net unable UK /ʌnˈeɪbl/ US /ʌnˈeɪbl/ adjective Definitions Lack of capability: Expresses a complete absence of capacity to perform an action. "Due to the heavy snowstorm, the travelers were unable to reach their destination." "Unable to solve the mystery, the detective reviewed the evidence once more." Incapable in a specific context: Refers to a person's or entity's lack of skill or suitability in a particular situation. "She was unable to attend the meeting due to prior commitments." "The computer was unable to process the large file quickly." Physically powerless: Suggests deprivation of physical strength necessary for achieving an action. "After the surgery, he was temporarily unable to walk without assistance." "The athlete was unable to continue the race due to an injury." Emotionally inept: Conveys a sense of emotional blockage or incapacity to manage feelings or situations. "He was unable to express his feelings during the confrontation." "Feeling unable to cope any longer, she decided to seek help." Resource deficiency: Describes a lack of necessary resources to achieve a task. "Without financial support, he was unable to undertake the project." "The team was unable to proceed due to equipment malfunction." Commonly misspelled words unabel unabble Common Mistakes & Misunderstandings Myth: Unable means lacking motivation. Fact: Unable denotes a lack of ability, not desire. Trap: Confusing 'unable' with 'unavailable', which implies being busy or not present. Note: Double-check spelling; 'unable' is often misspelled as 'unabel'. Synonyms powerless unqualified Antonyms competent Word Topics Commonly Confused Words Etymology In the late Middle Ages, English speakers combined the prefix un-, meaning not, with the word able, which suggests capability or talent. This fusion created the adjective 'unable,' implying a lack of ability or power. Over time, as communication and technology advanced, this term maintained its semantic essence, efficiently conveying the absence of capability across various contexts. The structure of 'unable' easily aligns with newer, complex English language structures, providing a quick, clear method to express incapacity or powerlessness. Frequently Asked Questions Does 'unable' only refer to physical inability? + No, 'unable' can pertain to lack of skill, resources, or emotional capacity as well. How do I differentiate 'unable' from 'unavailable'? + 'Unable' refers to not having the ability, while 'unavailable' means not being present or accessible. Can 'unable' be used in positive contexts? + Typically, 'unable' describes negative scenarios, such as incapacity, but context may add a positive spin, like a temporary hurdle overcome later. Is 'unable' suitable for formal writing? + Yes, 'unable' is versatile and can appear in both formal and informal settings without issue. What are common synonyms for 'unable'? + Common synonyms include 'incapable', 'powerless', and 'unqualified'. Related Words uncascading unperjuring uncolouredness unilateralism unwise See Also Topics Popular Words exhibition dissipating reckoned alleged Browse by Letter A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y