Incapable

Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ɪnˈkeɪpəbl/

Definitions

• Not able to do something; lacking the ability, power, or capacity to perform a task.
• Unable to produce a desired effect or result.
• Incompetent or lacking the necessary skills or qualities for a particular activity.

Usage Examples

• She was incapable of finishing the marathon due to an injury.
• The team felt incapable of winning after the loss of their star player.
• He was incapable of understanding the complex instructions.

Etymology

From the Latin "incapabilis," from "in-" meaning "not" and "capabilis," meaning "able to hold or contain." The term evolved into its current form in Middle English in the late 16th century.

Synonyms

• Incompetent
• Unfit
• Unable
• Powerless
• Helpless
• Deficient

Antonyms

• Capable
• Competent
• Able
• Skilled
• Proficient
• Empowered

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In different English-speaking regions, the pronunciation of "incapable" may vary slightly, with some accents emphasizing certain syllables more than others. For example, in British English, the first syllable may be stressed more heavily, while in American English, the stress is more balanced.

Historical Usage

The word "incapable" dates back to the early 17th century and was initially used in legal and philosophical texts to describe individuals who lacked the capacity to perform certain functions or duties. Over time, it expanded to describe a wide range of situations involving limitations in ability or capacity.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, being described as "incapable" can carry a negative stigma, particularly in professional or social contexts. In some cultures, however, incapacity is seen as a condition that can be addressed through support and intervention, rather than a permanent label. The perception of incapability can vary depending on societal values regarding individual responsibility, achievement, and resilience.

More Information

The term "incapable" is often used in both everyday language and technical fields, such as law, medicine, and psychology, to describe an individual's inability to perform a specific task. In legal contexts, it may refer to an individual's inability to carry out contractual obligations, while in healthcare, it could describe a person’s inability to perform basic daily activities due to illness or injury. Understanding incapability in various contexts allows professionals to better assess and provide support for individuals facing challenges in different areas of life.