a limited ability

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a limited ability" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to describe the extent of a person's ability or potential. For example, "He has a limited ability to understand complex topics."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"And they had a limited ability to repay.

The New Yorker

"But the gangs have a limited ability to adapt to this," Mr. Rosenthal said.

The New York Times

They cautioned, however, that they had a limited ability to be certain of that.

The New York Times

Simons: N.G.O.s have had a limited ability to influence the decisions of average Chinese consumers.

The New Yorker

Steel companies have only a limited ability to exploit the Internet via, say, B2B exchanges.

The Economist

Its range was only about 10 miles, and it had a limited ability to home on its target.

The New York Times

"Because of the drought, Australia has a limited ability to increase its exports to anyone," he said.

The New York Times

If several companies managed the benefit, each one would have only a limited ability to drive down drug prices.

The New York Times

Mammalian adult skeletal muscle has a limited ability to regenerate after injury, usage or trauma.

Biomaterials

Articular cartilage lesions have a limited ability to heal by themselves.

Acta Biomaterialia

A monomeric structure has a limited ability to concentrate compressive stress and constrain activated complexes.

Biophysical Journal

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a limited ability" to objectively describe a skill or capacity without implying judgment or criticism.

Common error

Avoid using "a limited ability" when the ability is entirely absent. Use stronger phrasing like "no ability" or "incapable" to accurately reflect the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a limited ability" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It describes the extent or degree of someone or something's capability in a particular area. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is grammatically correct and used to indicate capacity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Wiki

7%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a limited ability" is a versatile and grammatically correct way to describe a restricted capacity or skill. As shown by Ludwig, its usage spans various contexts, from scientific research to news reporting, demonstrating its broad applicability. When using this phrase, be specific about the context in which the ability is limited to ensure clarity. It's important to remember that "a limited ability" suggests some capacity exists, unlike "a lack of ability", which implies a complete absence of skill. Given its prevalence and clear meaning, "a limited ability" is a valuable tool for precise and objective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a constrained ability

This alternative focuses on the restriction placed upon the ability.

a restricted ability

This alternative emphasizes the boundaries or limits of the ability.

a finite ability

This suggests the ability has a clear and definable limit.

a reduced capacity

This phrase suggests a decrease in the amount that can be done.

a modest ability

This term indicates a moderate or humble level of ability.

an impaired capacity

Focuses on the negative impact, the ability to do something is weakened or damaged.

a diminished skill

This alternative highlights a reduction in skill level.

a minor ability

This suggests that the ability is small or insignificant.

a narrow scope

This shifts the focus to the breadth or range of the ability.

a deficient aptitude

Suggests a lack of natural skill or talent.

FAQs

How can I use "a limited ability" in a sentence?

You can use "a limited ability" to describe someone's capacity in a specific area. For example, "Due to the injury, she has "a limited ability" to run long distances."

What are some alternatives to saying "a limited ability"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a constrained ability", "a modest ability", or "a finite ability".

Is it better to say "limited ability" or "a limited ability"?

Both are correct, but "a limited ability" is used when referring to a general instance or a specific case. "Limited ability" (without the article "a") is more common when discussing the concept in general.

What's the difference between "a limited ability" and "a lack of ability"?

"A limited ability" suggests some capacity exists, though not fully developed. "A lack of ability" implies a complete absence of that skill or capacity.