Synonyms for

Incapable

Verb / ˌɪˈnkeɪpʌbʌl / Another word for incapable — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

unable to do something; lacking the necessary skill or ability

Synonyms & similar words

capable unequalto incompetent incompetent inept unqualified inexperienced unskilled inefficient unfit inadequate unable impotent powerless helpless weak incapacitated disabled handicapped immobilized paralyzed debilitated infirm

Synonyms by register

Formal

unable impotent ineffective powerless

Informal

no good can't do it useless out of it

Literary

unfit feeble helpless

Antonyms

capable able competent skilled qualified adept fit

Common collocations

  • incapable of action
  • incapable of understanding
  • incapable of speech
  • incapable of feeling
  • incapable of learning
  • incapable of defending
  • incapable of change

Word family

noun incapacity
adjective incapable
adverb incapably

Usage note

Often followed by 'of' and a gerund or noun. Can sometimes imply a lack of moral or emotional capacity, not just physical or intellectual.

Example sentences

  1. He was incapable of climbing the tall tree.
  2. She was incapable of finishing her homework without help.
  3. The team was incapable of winning the game without their star player.
  4. The robot was incapable of feeling emotions.
  5. The old computer was incapable of running the new software.

Quotes

  • It is impossible for a man who is incapable of honesty to be a leader among men.
  • Being incapable of any measurable achievement in life, he stuck to reading about great men and women as a way of compensating for his own shortcomings.
  • The weak have always been subject to the strong; and the strong have always been foolish, being incapable of seeing where their strength actually lay.

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