Words / A2

un-AYBL/ʌnˈeɪbl/

Unable means not able: be unable to, unable to come, unable to sleep. Cannot / can’t is the everyday verb form. Disabled is a different word about a long-term condition — do not mix them. Able is the opposite. Followed by to + verb. Do not write unable when you mean enable (make possible).

Meaning

Not able to do something.

Examples

• “I was unable to open the file on my phone.”
• “I am unable to attend the meeting on Friday.”
• “She was unable to find her ticket at the gate.”

Good to know

be unable to + verb. Everyday: cannot. Opposite: able. Mix-up: enable, disabled.

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