Unable in Tagalog

“Unable” in Tagalog is “Hindi makakaya” or “Hindi makakapag” – expressing inability or incapacity to do something. Explore the various ways Filipinos express limitation and discover the subtle differences in usage across different contexts.

Unable /ʌnˈeɪbəl/

• Adjective: Lacking the skill, means, or opportunity to do something; not able.
• Adjective: Not having the necessary power, authority, or means to accomplish something.

Synonyms in Tagalog: Hindi makakaya, Hindi makakapag, Walang kakayahan, Di-marunong, Hindi kayang, Walang kapangyarihan

Examples:

1. I was unable to attend the meeting because of a family emergency.
Ako ay hindi nakakaya na dumalo sa pulong dahil sa emergency sa pamilya.

2. She is unable to walk without assistance after the accident.
Siya ay hindi makakapaglakad nang walang tulong pagkatapos ng aksidente.

3. They were unable to finish the project on time due to lack of resources.
Sila ay hindi nakakayang tapusin ang proyekto sa takdang oras dahil sa kakulangan ng recursos.

4. He is unable to speak Tagalog fluently despite living here for years.
Siya ay hindi marunong magsalita ng Tagalog nang maayos kahit nakatira dito ng ilang taon.

5. The company was unable to pay its employees this month.
Ang kumpanya ay walang kakayahang magbayad sa mga empleyado ngayong buwan.