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incapable
/ɪnˈkeɪpəbəl/
unable to do something
She felt incapable of solving the complex math problem.
She couldn't do the math problem because it was too difficult.
general
Not having the ability, skill, or capacity to do something
The child was incapable of understanding advanced physics.
The child was too young to grasp complex physics concepts.
He is incapable of lying to his parents.
He always tells the truth to his parents.
Often used to describe a lack of ability or skill in a particular area.
Collocations
incapable ofunable to do something
Pro Tip
Common Usage
Use 'incapable' to describe a lack of ability in a general sense, not just physical limitations.
Word Origin
From Middle French 'incapable', from Latin 'incapabilis', from 'in-' (not) + 'capabilis' (able to hold, capable).
Usage Notes
Often used to describe a permanent or inherent lack of ability, rather than a temporary inability.
Word Breakdown
in-
not
prefix-capable
able to do
rootEnglish Dictionary