expression, i-adjective
Describes a person who is worldly-wise, not easily fooled, and often a bit sly. Used in expressions like 食えない奴.
あの男はなかなか食えない。
That guy is pretty shrewd.
彼は食えない笑みを浮かべ
He gave a cunning smile.
expression, i-adjective
inedible; uneatable
Literal meaning: cannot be eaten, usually because it is spoiled, poisonous, or not meant for consumption.
このキノコは毒があって食えない。
This mushroom is poisonous and inedible.
expression, i-adjective
unable to make a living; cannot support oneself
Figurative extension of the literal meaning: unable to earn enough to eat or survive. Often used in the phrase 食えないこともない (can just about get by).
この給料では食えない。
I can't make a living on this salary.
フリーランスでも食えないことはない。
Even as a freelancer, I can just about get by.