Uncapable vs. Incapable: The Correct Spellings

The word incapable has several forms like "incapability" (noun) and "incapably" (adverb). However, none of these derivatives lend support to the word "uncapable."

Uncapable is a common misspelling of the word "incapable." Incapable, the correct term, has its roots in the Latin "incapabilis," where "in-" means "not" and "capabilis" means "that can take or hold." Over the years, this word has solidified its place in the English lexicon, signifying a lack of ability, power, or capacity. The term uncapable, though sometimes used colloquially, doesn't have historical backing or etymological grounding similar to incapable.

To remember the correct spelling of "incapable," think of the word "capable" and then add "in-" before it to signify the opposite. Since "capable" is a commonly used word, by just remembering to add the "in-" prefix, you can ensure you're using the correct term.

Incorrect: The device is uncapable of connecting to the internet.

Correct: The device is incapable of connecting to the internet.

Incorrect: The government appeared uncapable of addressing the issue.

Correct: The government appeared incapable of addressing the issue.

Incorrect: She is uncapable of understanding complex math problems.

Correct: She is incapable of understanding complex math problems.

Incorrect: The team seemed uncapable of finishing the project on time.

Correct: The team seemed incapable of finishing the project on time.

Incorrect: He felt uncapable of expressing his true feelings.

Correct: He felt incapable of expressing his true feelings.

Not having the required skills or knowledge to perform a task.

Not open to; not susceptible to some influence, mood, etc.

Lacking the necessary ability, capacity, or power for a particular purpose.

Unable to behave rationally or manage one's affairs.

Lacking physical or intellectual ability.

Lacking the necessary ability, capacity, or power

Unable to perform adequately; incompetent

Not susceptible to action or treatment

Not meeting the physical and mental requirements imposed by law for the performance of a particular task.

Not meeting the requirements necessary for proper legal functioning

Not capable (of doing something); unable.

Not in a state to receive; not receptive; not susceptible; not able to admit.

(dated) One who is morally or mentally weak or inefficient; an imbecile; a simpleton.

Lacking in ability or qualification for the purpose or end in view; not large enough to contain or hold; deficient in physical strength, mental or moral power, etc.; not capable; as, incapable of holding a certain quantity of liquid; incapable of endurance, of comprehension, of perseverance, of reform, etc.

Not capable of being brought to do or perform, because morally strong or well disposed; - used with reference to some evil; as, incapable of wrong, dishonesty, or falsehood.

Not in a state to receive; not receptive; not susceptible; not able to admit; as, incapable of pain, or pleasure; incapable of stain or injury.

Unqualified or disqualified, in a legal sense; as, a man under thirty-five years of age is incapable of holding the office of president of the United States; a person convicted on impeachment is thereby made incapable of holding an office of profit or honor under the government.

As a term of disgrace, sometimes annexed to a sentence when an officer has been cashiered and rendered incapable of serving his country.

One who is morally or mentally weak or inefficient; an imbecile; a simpleton.

(followed by `of') lacking capacity or ability;

not being susceptible to or admitting of something (usually followed by `of');

lacking the necessary skill or knowledge etc.;

(followed by `of') not having the temperament or inclination for;

not meeting requirements;

She felt incapable of making a decision.

The machine is incapable of performing the required task.

The system is incapable of handling such a large volume of data.

The old software is incapable of running on new computers.

This printer is incapable of printing in color.

The damaged vessel was incapable of sailing further.

She was incapable of hiding her disappointment.

He is incapable of lying.

They are incapable of understanding each other's perspectives.

The structure is incapable of withstanding an earthquake.

The organization is incapable of meeting its goals.

The child seems incapable of focusing for long periods.

He seems incapable of accepting criticism.

She is incapable of breaking her promises.

The government is incapable of providing immediate relief.

The company is incapable of competing in the current market.

They proved incapable of reaching a compromise.

The software is incapable of solving the problem.

The car is incapable of reaching high speeds.

He found himself incapable of leaving his job.

The battery is incapable of holding a charge for more than a few hours.

The device is incapable of detecting the virus.

She was incapable of feeling joy after the tragedy.

The team is incapable of working together efficiently.

He is incapable of playing the game due to an injury.

Dependent on others; unable to be independent or self-sufficient.

Unwilling to make even a minimal effort.

Unable to keep silent or keep a secret.

Showing no reaction or emotion.

A theory or argument that is flawed and cannot stand up to scrutiny.

Unable to suppress a smile or laughter.

Not doing one's fair share of work.

Unable to ease tension or initiate conversation in a social setting.

Too focused on details to understand the overall situation.

Unable to refrain from speaking, especially to avoid saying something inappropriate or harmful.

Not able to handle the task or meet expectations.

Unable to organize oneself or one's activities efficiently.

Unable to agree.

Unable to ignore something wrong or unethical.

Unable to act spontaneously or without a plan.

Unable to adapt to setbacks or changes.

Unable to leave things undisturbed; stirring up old conflicts or issues.

Unable to stay calm under pressure or in stressful situations.

Unable to think creatively or differently.

Unable to perceive or respond appropriately to the mood or feelings of a group.

People might use "uncapable" by mistakenly combining the prefix "un-" commonly used to negate words, with "capable."

Incapable has its roots in the Latin "incapabilis," where "in-" means "not" and "capabilis" means "that can take or hold."

Most standard English dictionaries do not recognize "uncapable" as a valid word. "Incapable" is the accepted term.

No, "uncapable" is not a standard English word. The correct term is "incapable."

Yes, some derivatives of "incapable" are "incapability" (noun) and "incapably" (adverb).

Think of the word "capable" and add the "in-" prefix to signify the opposite, leading to "incapable."

It's advisable not to use "uncapable" in formal writing, as it's not recognized as standard English. Instead, use "incapable."

Incapable is pronounced as /ɪnˈkeɪpəbəl/.

Yes, "incapacity" is a noun form of "incapable," meaning the state of lacking capacity or ability.

While "uncapable" isn't standard English, it might appear colloquially or in specific regional dialects. However, in most contexts, "incapable" is the accepted term.