Unable vs. Inable: Difference and Comparison
Edited by Muazma Batool — By Muneeza Rehman — Published on March 29, 2024
Unable means not having the skill or means to do something, while "inable" is not a recognized word in standard English.
Difference Between Unable and Inable
Unable and inable, while sounding somewhat similar, are not identical in the realm of English vocabulary. Unable is a widely accepted term, denoting the lack of ability, skill, or means to accomplish something. For instance, if someone is unable to lift a heavy box, they lack the physical strength or capacity to do so. In this context, unable serves to highlight limitations or inadequacies.
Muazma Batool
Mar 29, 2024
In contrast, "inable" is not recognized as a standard word in the English language. Although it might sound like it should be the opposite of "unable," it's not a word you'll find in most dictionaries or English usage. The correct antonym of "unable" is typically "able." Inable might be a typographical error or perhaps a mispronunciation, but it's not an accepted or recognized term.
Muneeza Rehman
Mar 29, 2024
This distinction is crucial, especially for non-native speakers and learners of English. Using "unable" appropriately demonstrates a grasp of the language, while mistakenly using "inable" could lead to misunderstandings or appear as a linguistic oversight.
Muazma Batool
Mar 29, 2024
In essence, while "unable" is a term rooted in the lexicon and widely used to depict a lack of capability, "inable" stands as an anomaly, likely a mix-up or confusion with the word "enable" or a mistaken antonym of "unable."
Nolan
Mar 29, 2024
Unable vs. Inable Comparison Chart
Unable vs. Inable Definitions
◉Unable
Lacking physical or mental capabilities.
After the surgery, he was unable to walk for a week.
Jonathan
Sep 11, 2023
◉Unable
Not having the necessary skills or knowledge.
He's unable to solve the math problem.
Elijah
Sep 11, 2023
◉Unable
Lacking the power to perform a specific action.
She was unable to attend the meeting.
Nolan
Sep 11, 2023
◉Unable
Lacking the necessary power, authority, or means; not able; incapable
unable to get to town without a car.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Inable
Since "inable" is not a recognized word in standard English, providing definitions and example sentences is not feasible.
Muazma Batool
Sep 11, 2023
◉Unable
Lacking mental or physical capability or efficiency; incompetent
unable to walk.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Unable
Usage Problem Not susceptible to action or treatment
a project unable to be financed with government funds. See Usage Note at able.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Unable
Not able; lacking a certain ability.
Are you unable to mind your own business or something?
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Unable
(aviation) Indicating that a requested course of action is not possible to carry out.
"November three seven kilo, climb and maintain twelve thousand." "Unable, we have pressurization problems. Maintaining nine thousand."
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Unable
Not able; not having sufficient strength, means, knowledge, skill, or the like; impotent; weak; helpless; incapable; - now usually followed by an infinitive or an adverbial phrase; as, unable for work; unable to bear fatigue.
Sapless age and weak unable limbs.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Unable
(usually followed by `to') not having the necessary means or skill or know-how;
unable to get to town without a car
unable to obtain funds
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Unable
(usually followed by `to') lacking necessary physical or mental ability;
dyslexics are unable to learn to read adequately
the sun was unable to melt enough snow
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Unable
lacking in power or forcefulness;
an ineffectual ruler
like an unable phoenix in hot ashes
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Unable
Not in a position to do something.
Due to the storm, we were unable to travel.
Levi
Sep 11, 2023
◉Unable
Not equipped or fit for a particular function.
The machine is unable to handle such large files.
Leo
Sep 11, 2023
Unable vs. Inable Frequently Asked Questions
Is "inable" the opposite of "unable"?
No, "inable" is not a recognized word in standard English. The opposite of "unable" is "able."
Muneeza Rehman
Mar 29, 2024
What does "unable" mean?
Unable denotes the lack of ability, skill, or means to accomplish something.
Muazma Batool
Mar 29, 2024
Is "unable" used to express limitations?
Yes, "unable" is used to depict limitations or inadequacies.
Jonathan
Mar 29, 2024
Could "inable" be a typographical error?
Yes, "inable" might be mistakenly written instead of "enable" or misunderstood as the opposite of "unable."
Muneeza Rehman
Mar 29, 2024
How can one express the capability to do something?
One would use "able" to express the capability or means to do something.
Kaitlyn
Mar 29, 2024
How do you describe someone who lacks the skill to do something?
You can say they are "unable" to do it.
Levi
Mar 29, 2024
Is "inable" commonly used in spoken or written English?
No, "inable" is not commonly used, and it's not a recognized term in standard English.
Olivia
Mar 29, 2024
Can "inable" be found in English dictionaries?
Inable is not a recognized term in most standard dictionaries.
Muazma Batool
Mar 29, 2024
Should learners of English use the term "inable"?
No, learners should avoid using "inable" as it's not recognized in standard English.
Lucas
Mar 29, 2024
If not "inable," what's the right word to use?
If expressing capability, the word "able" should be used. If referring to granting permission or power, "enable" might be the intended word.
Muneeza Rehman
Mar 29, 2024
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Written by
Muneeza RehmanAt Comparisons.wiki, Muneeza skillfully navigates the vast sea of information, ensuring clarity and accuracy as the lead content editor. With a keen eye for detail, she curates every comparison to enlighten and engage readers.
Edited by
Muazma BatoolAs a content editor, Muazma Batool is not just a grammar guru but a creative mastermind who breathes life into every word. With an eagle eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, she transforms bland text into engaging content that captivates audiences and drives results.
