incapable
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
adj.not able to do something because you lack the skill, strength, or power.
adj.lacking the necessary ability, capacity, or power to perform a specific action. Usually followed by the preposition 'of'.
Simple“The old engine was incapable of pulling such a heavy load up the hill.”
In context“Despite his extensive training, the pilot found himself incapable of stabilizing the aircraft during the severe atmospheric turbulence.”
UsageTypically used in the pattern 'incapable of doing something'.
PitfallHe is incapable to finish the work. He is incapable of finishing the work.The adjective 'incapable' is followed by 'of' and a gerund (-ing form), not an infinitive.
Synonyms - 02 C1 Advanced
adj.not able to receive or take something in.
adj.not in a state to receive, admit, or be susceptible to something. Often used in technical or philosophical contexts.
Simple“The dry, hard soil was incapable of absorbing the sudden rain.”
In context“The philosopher argued that certain minds are simply incapable of receiving complex abstract truths without prior rigorous instruction.”
Teacher's tipThis sense is much rarer than the general 'unable' sense and is mostly found in formal writing.
SynonymsunreceptiveimperviousAntonyms - 03 C2 Proficiency
n.a person who is seen as weak or not able to take care of themselves.
n.a person who is mentally or physically weak, or otherwise lacking in efficiency or competence.
Simple“In the old story, the king was surrounded by incapables who could not lead.”
In context“The harsh social policies of the era often grouped the elderly and the infirm together as social incapables.”
UsageUsed as a countable noun, often in the plural.
Teacher's tipThis noun use is dated and can sound offensive; students should avoid using it in modern conversation.
Synonymsweaklingincompetent
“Perversely, until that point they had seemed incapable of retaining the ball in key positions.”
Borrowed from Middle French incapable, equivalent to in- + capable.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.