incapable
6 synonyms and 1 antonym for incapable, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adjective — Not able to do something; lacking the necessary skill or capacity.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use incapable
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
incapable of
utterly incapable
Etymology
From Middle French incapable — in- plus capable.
Full origin of incapable →Frequently asked questions
What does “incapable” mean?
The word “incapable” means not able to do something; lacking the necessary skill or capacity. In plain terms, unable to do something, often used with "of.".
How do you pronounce “incapable”?
“Incapable” is pronounced ihn-KAY-puhbl (/ɪnˈkeɪpəbl̩/ in IPA).
How do you use “incapable” in a sentence?
Here is “incapable” used in a sentence: “He seemed incapable of admitting he was wrong.”
What is the opposite of “incapable”?
The opposite of “incapable” — its antonyms — is capable.
What part of speech is “incapable”?
“Incapable” is an adjective.
Where does the word “incapable” come from?
The word “incapable” comes from Middle French. From Middle French incapable — in- plus capable.
Is “incapable” a common word?
“Incapable” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between incapable and unable?
Incapable often suggests a more lasting lack of skill, capacity, or character needed to do something, such as being incapable of cruelty, while unable more commonly refers to a temporary or situational inability, such as being unable to attend a meeting due to a conflict. Incapable can carry a stronger judgment about someone's fundamental ability or nature.
What preposition follows incapable?
Incapable is typically followed by 'of,' as in 'incapable of finishing the task' or 'incapable of lying.' This is a fixed pattern in standard English usage.
Is incapable used to describe both people and things?
Yes, incapable can describe people who lack a skill or capacity, such as an incapable manager, as well as systems or things that cannot perform a function, such as a machine incapable of handling the load. In both cases it points to a lack of necessary ability or capacity.
