a broad ability

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a broad ability" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a wide-ranging skill or capability in a particular area. Example: "Her success in various fields can be attributed to her broad ability to adapt and learn quickly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Assume that it has a broad ability to consider problems and that it has access to the Internet.

The New Yorker

In a famous exchange from the original oral argument, Malcolm Stewart, a Deputy Solicitor General, claimed that Congress has a broad ability to regulate corporate communication as part of its role in overseeing elections.

The New Yorker

"A major problem" with almost all cognitive training studies is that researchers only measure improvement in skills such as memory based on an individual task, rather than a range of tasks that represent a broad ability, Lindenberger says.

Science Magazine

Intelligence researchers have long found that people differ widely in a broad ability for "general memory and learning".

Huffington Post

C. botulinum has a broad ability to use different types of animal and vegetable proteins as a growth substrate [ 9, 13].

Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica

The fact that this IgM is therapeutic in two different models of neurodegenerative disease implies a broad ability to protect axons.

DMM Disease Models and Mechanisms

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

If a broader ability range is to be admitted to some grammar schools, why not go the whole way and have real comprehensive schools, which most international studies suggest are the most successful setting in which for all children to succeed?

The Guardian

It's slightly hard to see what is new here other than a broader ability for sites to add feeds.

TechCrunch

The new technology follows a controversial law passed in 2015 that gives the government a broader ability to collect biometric information from citizens, foreign travelers and minors in Australia's airports.

TechCrunch

This response repertoire goes beyond what seems likely to be used as food cues and may reflect a broader ability of the nematode to sense its environment including detection of predators, environmental toxins or pathogens.

Plosone

On the other hand, if sentence repetition is best considered as simply another measure of a broad language ability construct rather than a distinct ability, it should load strongly on a unitary language factor.

Developmental Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a broad ability", ensure the context clearly indicates the area or domain to which the ability applies. This adds precision and prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a broad ability" without specifying the context. Saying someone has "a broad ability" without further detail makes the statement vague and less impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a broad ability" functions as a noun phrase, where "broad" modifies the noun "ability". As Ludwig AI suggests, it describes a general or wide-ranging capability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

23%

News & Media

36%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a broad ability" is grammatically correct and describes a wide-ranging skill or capability. Ludwig AI indicates that it is suitable for various contexts, though specifying the area where this ability is evident enhances clarity. While alternatives like "a wide-ranging skill" or "a versatile capability" exist, the choice depends on the specific nuance intended. Its presence in reputable sources like The New York Times and academic publications confirms its acceptability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a wide-ranging skill

Focuses on the skill aspect, emphasizing its extensive scope.

a versatile capability

Highlights the adaptability and diverse application of the capability.

a comprehensive aptitude

Emphasizes the thoroughness and completeness of the aptitude.

an extensive competence

Stresses the breadth and depth of the competence.

a general capacity

Focuses on the overall capacity to perform or achieve.

a far-reaching talent

Highlights the extent and impact of the talent.

a diverse skillset

Emphasizes the variety and range of skills included.

a flexible proficiency

Highlights the adaptability and skill level.

an inclusive skillset

Highlights the comprehensive nature of the skillset.

a sweeping competence

Emphasizes the expansive nature of the competence.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a broad ability" in a sentence?

To effectively use "a broad ability", specify the area or field where this ability is evident. For example, "She possesses "a broad ability" in data analysis." /s/a+broad+ability

What are some alternatives to using "a broad ability"?

Alternatives include "a wide-ranging skill", "a versatile capability", or "a comprehensive aptitude", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "a broad abilities" instead of "a broad ability"?

No, it is not correct. "Ability" should be singular when preceded by the indefinite article "a". "Abilities" is used when referring to multiple capabilities or in a general sense without "a".

What's the difference between "a broad ability" and "a specific skill"?

"A broad ability" refers to a general capability applicable across various tasks or situations, while "a specific skill" is a defined competence in a particular area. For example, adaptability is "a broad ability", while coding in Python is a specific skill. /s/a+broad+ability