Definitions
- Describing a situation where someone lacks the ability to do something. - Referring to a person who is not capable of performing a particular task. - Talking about a condition where someone is not able to accomplish a specific goal or objective.
- Describing a person who lacks the necessary skills or knowledge to perform a particular task. - Referring to a situation where someone is not competent or qualified to do something. - Talking about a condition where someone is not able to achieve a particular goal or objective due to their limitations.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe a lack of ability or competence.
- 2Both words can be used to refer to a person or situation.
- 3Both words convey a negative connotation.
- 4Both words are adjectives that modify a noun or pronoun.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Unable is more commonly used in everyday language, while incapable is more formal and less frequently used.
- 2Scope: Unable refers to a general lack of ability, while incapable implies a more specific lack of skill or qualification.
- 3Connotation: Unable is neutral in tone, while incapable has a more negative connotation and can imply incompetence or inadequacy.
- 4Grammatical structure: Unable is followed by an infinitive verb, while incapable is followed by 'of' + gerund or noun.
- 5Intensity: Incapable is generally considered a stronger word than unable and may suggest a more permanent or severe limitation.
Remember this!
Unable and incapable are synonyms that describe a lack of ability or competence. However, unable is more commonly used and neutral in tone, while incapable is more formal and has a negative connotation. Unable refers to a general lack of ability, while incapable implies a more specific lack of skill or qualification.
