Find Antonyms

able Antonyms

Opposite of able

Because the opposite of able shifts with each meaning, the 12 antonyms and opposite words below are separated across 2 exact definitions and ranked by contrast strength.
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• adjective (Context 1)

Having the power, skill, means, or opportunity to do something (typically used predicatively with a following infinitive).

Usage Example

"Will you be unable to attend the conference in Chicago next month?"

Strongest
unable
incapable
Strong
powerless
helpless
unfit
unqualified

• adjective (Context 2)

Having considerable skill, proficiency, intelligence, or competence in a particular field or endeavor.

Usage Example

"The board appointed an incompetent negotiator to resolve the longstanding contract dispute."

Strongest
incompetent
inept
incapable
Strong
unskilled
ineffectual
unqualified
bumbling
amateurish

Similar words to able

Words similar to able shift depending on context. Common synonyms include:

capable
competent
skilled
proficient
skillful
accomplished
adept
talented
See all synonyms of able

• Nearby Words

ability
abjectly
ablaze
able
abled
ableism
ableist

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Antonyms for Able. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/antonyms/able
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