Basic Details
Word: Unable
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Not having the power, means, or opportunity to do something.
Synonyms: Incapable, powerless, unqualified
Antonyms: Able, capable, qualified
Idioms and Phrases
- Unable to see the wood for the trees: Used to describe someone who cannot see the bigger picture because they are too focused on the details. Example: "He was so busy with the small details of the project that he was unable to see the wood for the trees."
- Unable to make heads or tails of it: Refers to being confused or not understanding something at all. Example: "The instructions were so complicated that I was unable to make heads or tails of it."
Usage Examples
Example 1: She felt unable to join her friends at the party because she was unwell.
Example 2: The team was unable to finish the project on time due to unexpected challenges.
Example 3: He is unable to play football because of his injured ankle.
Fun Fact
The word "unable" comes from the prefix "un-" meaning "not," and "able," which comes from the Latin word "habilis," meaning "easy to handle or manage". Together, they clearly indicate a lack of ability or capacity.
Famous Quote
"We are all unable to do some things, and it is okay; what matters is how we respond to our challenges." - Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "unable" mean?
a) Having the power to do something
b) Not having the power to do something
c) Being very excited
d) Being very tired
Answer: b) Not having the power to do something
2. Which of these is a synonym of "unable"?
a) Capable
b) Incapable
c) Competent
d) Successful
Answer: b) Incapable
3. Which sentence uses "unable" correctly?
a) She was unable to find her keys.
b) He is unable to jump very high after his training.
c) The magician was unable to amaze the audience.
d) They are unable to finish school.
Answer: a) She was unable to find her keys.
4. Which idiom means being confused about something?
a) Unable to see the wood for the trees
b) Unable to make heads or tails of it
c) Head over heels
d) In the same boat
Answer: b) Unable to make heads or tails of it
5. What is the opposite of "unable"?
a) Unsuccessful
b) Qualified
c) Weak
d) Tired
Answer: b) Qualified
