English–French

“unable” in French

French

Pronunciation

IPA/ɛ̃kapabl/

Example

Je suis incapable de mentir.

I am unable to lie.

Illustration for incapable (unable)

How to say “unable” in French

“Unable” in French is incapable.

A person stands before a task while the ability or means needed to do it is unavailable.

Full entry for incapable: usage tips, similar words and word origin

Example sentences with incapable

Après la maladie, il était incapable de marcher.

After the illness, he was incapable of walking.

Tips for using incapable

  • Incapable can describe a temporary inability, whereas incompétent usually describes inadequate professional skill or judgment.

“unable” in other languages