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Mar 28, 2024 · Not able is used with the verb ‘to be’ to show a lack of ability in a specific situation. For example, “I am not able to swim.” It points out a temporary condition or limitation. On the other hand, unable is an adjective that describes a general lack of ability or power to do something.
Oct 11, 2023 · While “unable” and “not able” can often be used interchangeably, there are subtle differences in style, length, and formality between them. “Unable” offers a more concise and, at times, more formal way to express incapability.
“Unable” means you’re not able to do something at this moment, while “can’t” means you’ll never be able to do that thing (with your present knowledge).
Feb 24, 2017 · If I have no specific context, I would not necessarily infer scheduling conflicts or traffic jams from either version; but if I have a scheduling conflict, I would be more likely to say ‘I’m unable’, and if I’m stuck in traffic, I’d be more likely to say ‘I’m not able’ (or even more likely, ‘I won’t be able’).
Oct 30, 2020 · able to, unable to (not able to), can, could, cannot, could not are the special words in English used to indicate person’s ability or inability, capability or incapability. These words systematically relate with each other, can be used alternatively in sentences. I can speak English fluently.
Jun 19, 2013 · Hello dear all, As you know, the negative form of able is unable. Can we also use not able instead of unable or not? For example: I am unable to understand what she wants. I am not able to understand what she wants. Is the second sentence correct or not? (I men not able) Thank you.
Avoiding Common Grammar Mistakes: "Not able" vs "Unable". As an English grammar guru, I'm here to help you navigate the tricky world of grammar and improve your writing skills. Today, we'll be discussing a common mistake that often occurs when expressing the idea of being unable to do something.
Dec 4, 2015 · I can't swim here - this does not necessarily mean you do not know how to, it can also be because you are bound by some rules etc (you may be banned from the pool, say). I am not able to swim here - this necessarily means that you do not know how to.
Nov 11, 2008 · For these tenses, you have to use be able to or be unable to. Here are some examples and don't forget that when you use unable to, it gives a more formal tone than not able to.
adjective. uk / ʌnˈeɪ.b ə l / us / ʌnˈeɪ.b ə l / be unable to do something. Add to word list. B1. to not be able to do something: We were unable to contact him at the time. Fewer examples. We were unable to get funding and therefore had to abandon the project. She's been unable to play since January because of a torn calf muscle.