incapable

Everyday

1. If you are incapable of doing something, you cannot do it, because you do not have the ability or power. tree →
2. (formal) Incapable can mean not able to look after yourself, for example because of illness or being very drunk. tree →

In the lessons

In stories it is often used for character: «incapable of lying» means always honest. In everyday talk it can describe someone useless at something, which may sound rude. Phrases: incapable of, completely incapable.

Examples

• My grandmother is incapable of being unkind. tree →
• The baby is incapable of walking yet. tree →
• Penguins are incapable of flying. tree →
• He seemed incapable of sitting still. tree →
• The old car was incapable of going up the steep hill. tree →
• Without his glasses, he was incapable of reading the sign. tree →
• She's incapable of telling a lie. tree →
• He gave his hat to Liza, who took it scornfully; for she had no imagination, and was quite incapable of understanding the motives of such a man. tree →

Note

Always followed by «of» + noun or -ing: incapable of flying (not «incapable to fly»). Opposite: capable. Calling someone «incapable» about their job can be insulting.