Inklingo

How to Say "inability" in Spanish

English → Spanish

incapacidad

/een-kah-pah-see-dahd//inkapasiˈðad/

nounB1general
Use 'incapacidad' when the inability stems from a lack of skill, talent, or inherent power to perform an action.
A small child unsuccessfully reaching for a cookie jar on a high kitchen counter.

Examples

Su incapacidad para guardar secretos es un problema.

His inability to keep secrets is a problem.

Siento una gran incapacidad para entender este manual.

I feel a great inability to understand this manual.

La incapacidad de los testigos para recordar los hechos retrasó el juicio.

The witnesses' inability to remember the facts delayed the trial.

Using 'para' with Incapacidad

When you want to say 'inability TO do something,' use the word 'para' followed by the action (the base form of the verb).

Incapacidad vs. Discapacidad

Mistake: “Using 'incapacidad' for a physical handicap in all situations.”

Correction: While related, use 'discapacidad' for physical or mental disabilities, and 'incapacidad' more for the 'inability' to perform a specific task or a legal/medical leave.

imposibilidad

/eem-poh-see-bee-lee-DAHD//imposibiliˈdad/

nounB1general
Use 'imposibilidad' when the inability is caused by external factors, circumstances, or rules that prevent something from happening.
A square peg being pushed toward a round hole in a wooden block.

Examples

La imposibilidad de viajar este año me pone muy triste.

The impossibility of traveling this year makes me very sad.

Existe una imposibilidad física para abrir esa puerta bloqueada.

There is a physical impossibility to open that blocked door.

Ante la imposibilidad de pagar la deuda, pidió ayuda al banco.

Given the inability to pay the debt, he asked the bank for help.

The '-dad' Rule

Most Spanish words that end in '-dad' are feminine. This means you should always use 'la' or 'una' with this word.

Connecting to Actions

To say what is impossible, use the connector word 'de' followed by a verb in its basic form (the 'ar/er/ir' form). For example: 'la imposibilidad de comer'.

Using the Wrong Gender

Mistake: “el imposibilidad”

Correction: la imposibilidad

Confusing it with the Adjective

Mistake: “es un imposibilidad”

Correction: es imposible

Skill vs. Circumstance

Learners often confuse 'incapacidad' and 'imposibilidad' by using 'incapacidad' for external limitations. Remember: 'incapacidad' refers to a personal lack of ability (skill, power), while 'imposibilidad' refers to external factors making something impossible.

Related Translations

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