The difference between Able and Unable

When used as verbs, able means to make ready, whereas unable means to render unable.

When used as adjectives, able means easy to use, whereas unable means not able.

Able is also noun with the meaning: in .

check bellow for the other definitions of Able and Unable

  1. Able as an adjective (obsolete, passive):

    Easy to use.

  2. Able as an adjective (obsolete, passive):

    Suitable; competent.

  3. Able as an adjective (obsolete, dialectal, passive):

    Liable to.

  4. Able as an adjective:

    Having the necessary powers or the needed resources to accomplish a task.

  5. Able as an adjective:

    Free from constraints preventing completion of task; permitted to; not prevented from.

    Examples:

    "I’ll see you as soon as I’m able."

    "With that obstacle removed, I am now able to proceed with my plan."

    "I’m only able to visit you when I have other work here."

    "That cliff is able to be climbed."

  6. Able as an adjective (obsolete, dialectal):

    Having the physical strength; robust; healthy.

    Examples:

    "After the past week of forced marches, only half the men are fully able."

  7. Able as an adjective (obsolete):

    Rich; well-to-do.

    Examples:

    "He was born to an able family."

  8. Able as an adjective:

    Gifted with skill, intelligence, knowledge, or competence.

    Examples:

    "The chairman was also an able sailor."

  9. Able as an adjective (law):

    Legally qualified or competent.

    Examples:

    "He is able to practice law in six states."

  10. Able as an adjective (nautical):

    Capable of performing all the requisite duties; as an able seaman.

  1. Able as a verb (transitive, obsolete):

    To make ready.

  2. Able as a verb (transitive, obsolete):

    To make capable; to enable.

  3. Able as a verb (transitive, obsolete):

    To dress.

  4. Able as a verb (transitive, obsolete):

    To give power to; to reinforce; to confirm.

  5. Able as a verb (transitive, obsolete):

    To vouch for; to guarantee.

  1. Able as a noun:

    in .

  1. Unable as an adjective:

    Not able; lacking a certain ability.

    Examples:

    "Are you unable to mind your own business or something?"

  1. Unable as a verb (transitive, non-standard):

    To render unable; disable

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