अक्षम
वह अपनी बीमारी के कारण काम करने में अक्षम है।
Due to his illness, he is incapable of working.
Lacking the ability or power to do something; unable.
अग्निशमन विभाग के कर्मचारी आग बुझाने में अक्षम थे।
The firefighters were unable to extinguish the fire.
वह कानूनी रूप से अक्षम है, इसलिए उसने वसीयत नहीं बनाई।
He is legally incapacitated, so he did not make a will.
Used in both physical and legal contexts. In legal terms, it may refer to mental or legal incapacity.
Collocations
Pro Tip
Avoid overuse
The word 'अक्षम' is strong and implies a serious lack of ability. Use milder terms like 'असमर्थ' (asamarth) for minor limitations.
Gold Rule
Context matters
In legal contexts, 'अक्षम' often refers to mental or legal incapacity (e.g., 'अक्षम व्यक्ति' = 'incapacitated person'). In general usage, it means 'unable to do something'.
Word Origin
Sanskrit 'akṣam' (अक्षम्), from 'a-' (negative prefix) + 'kṣam' (क्षम्, 'to be able'). The word entered Hindi via Sanskrit.
Usage Notes
Commonly used in formal and legal contexts. Avoid using it for minor or temporary inability; it implies a significant lack of ability.