INCAPABLE Synonyms: 56 Similar and Opposite Words

incapable

adjective

(ˌ)in-ˈkā-pə-bəl

Definition of incapable

as in unfit

lacking qualities (as knowledge, skill, or ability) required to do a job hired a supremely incapable assistant who only made a mess of things

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of incapable The Molotov cocktails that English brought to the Capitol appeared to be incapable of igniting, the judge noted. — Michael Kunzelman, Fortune, 19 Aug. 2026 His costly miscalculation exploded into a life-and-death war fiasco that an incompetent and dishonest administration is now incapable of ending. — Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 15 Aug. 2026 The notion is that children are both uniquely vulnerable to trafficking or other mistreatment and incapable of navigating their way through the byzantine immigration system without legal help. — Ruth Marcus, New Yorker, 15 Aug. 2026 Real-world experience in professions may be a quality that AI is incapable of replicating, a new study suggests. — Joe McKendrick, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for incapable

Recent Examples of Synonyms for incapable

Adjective

The complaint also alleges Wendy's failed to warn customers of the alleged danger and served food that was unfit for human consumption.

— Anthony Thompson, USA Today, 25 Aug. 2026
His reelection campaign has been rocked by the allegations made by his ex-wife, Emily Moreno, and her senator dad, who says Miller is unfit to serve in Congress.

— Dave Goldiner, New York Daily News, 13 Aug. 2026

Definition of unfit

Adjective

In a 2013 Denver case on similar charges, he was found incompetent to stand trial, and the case was dismissed.

— Olivia Young, CBS News, 22 Aug. 2026
So the archetype of an uncharismatic leader is not necessarily someone unlikeable, introverted, socially incompetent or ineffective.

— Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026