a substantial ability

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a substantial ability" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant or considerable skill or capability that someone possesses. Example: "Her training provided her with a substantial ability to analyze complex data sets effectively."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Fuller's earth, any fine-grained, naturally occurring earthy substance that has a substantial ability to adsorb impurities or colouring bodies from fats, grease, or oils.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The pure PADE was superior to the commercial PPDs and displayed a substantial ability of wax crystals dispersion.

Journal of Natural Gas Chemistry

Here, like in the baby food case, there is no reason for a "giants" defense to be accepted, particularly since Microsoft undoubtedly has a substantial ability to compete now.

Forbes

On the other hand DSCI metrics have showed a substantial ability to differentiate between these tumor groups (Table  2).

Cancer Imaging

The central nervous system (CNS) has a substantial ability to remyelinate axons, which can be clearly distinguished from primarily myelinated axons in electron micrographs of MS plaques (Bruck et al., 1997; Bruck, Kuhlmann, & Stadelmann, 2003; Erickson, 2008; Staugaitis, Chang, & Trapp, 2012).

ASN Neuro

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

The potential reason has been attributed to substantial ability to have an efficient cardiovascular self-repair, which appears to be prevalently modulated by genetic background and environmental factors [ 9].

BioMed Research International

A good deal of recent research has been concentrated in this direction and has indicated that steel members have a substantial inherent ability to resist fire so that additional fire protection can be either reduced or eliminated completely.

Journal of Constructional Steel Research

Some studies have argued for a substantial predictive ability of plaque, diet and saliva factors [ 13], particularly in young children and elderly [ 14- 16].

BMC Oral Health

Voted the dirtiest player in the NFL by his peers during the 2012 season in a poll conducted by The Sporting News, the oft-fined Suh's substantial ability has frequently been overshadowed by his notoriety.

Huffington Post

Moreover, our results suggest an important role for TNFα in breast malignancy, because the cytokine has substantial ability to promote progression-related processes by inducing EMT processes in the tumor cells.

BMC Cancer

Certain clay minerals, notably palygorskite, sepiolite, and some smectites, possess substantial ability to remove coloured bodies from oil.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a substantial ability", ensure that the context clearly defines what that ability is and why it is considered substantial. Be specific about the nature and scope of the ability being described.

Common error

Avoid using "a substantial ability" when the ability is only moderate or average. Using it inappropriately can dilute the phrase's impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a substantial ability" functions as a noun phrase, where "substantial" modifies the noun "ability". According to Ludwig, this phrase is correct and usable. Its primary grammatical function is to act as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

20%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a substantial ability" is a grammatically sound and meaningful way to describe a notable level of skill or capacity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a correct and usable phrase, appearing across different domains such as science, news, and encyclopedias. When using this phrase, clarity and context are paramount to ensure the ability being described is well-defined and justified as 'substantial'. Alternatives like "a significant capacity" or "a considerable aptitude" may offer subtle nuances depending on the specific attribute you want to emphasize. Always avoid overstating the 'substantial' nature of an ability to maintain credibility and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant capacity

Replaces 'ability' with 'capacity' and 'substantial' with 'significant', focusing on the amount that can be contained or produced.

a considerable aptitude

Substitutes 'ability' with 'aptitude' to emphasize a natural talent or inclination.

a marked competence

Uses 'competence' instead of 'ability' to highlight proficiency and skill, while 'marked' replaces 'substantial'.

a notable capability

Replaces 'ability' with 'capability', focusing on the power or skill to do something, and 'substantial' with 'notable'.

a strong potential

Emphasizes future possibilities rather than current skills, altering the focus slightly.

a significant talent

Highlights a natural or acquired skill of a particular type.

a major skill

Focuses on developed expertise, reducing emphasis on innate potential.

a profound capacity

Emphasizes the depth and extent of one's ability.

a remarkable aptitude

Highlights the exceptional nature of the inherent talent or skill.

an impressive faculty

Uses 'faculty' to denote an inherent mental or physical power.

FAQs

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

You can use "a substantial ability" to describe a significant skill or capacity. For example, "Her training provided her with a substantial ability to analyze complex data sets effectively."

What are some alternatives to "a substantial ability"?

Alternatives include "a significant capacity", "a considerable aptitude", or "a marked competence", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "substantial ability" or "significant ability"?

Both "substantial ability" and "significant ability" are correct. The choice depends on the context and desired emphasis. "Substantial" suggests a considerable amount or degree, while "significant" implies importance or consequence.

What does it mean to have "a substantial ability"?

To have "a substantial ability" means possessing a notable or considerable skill, capacity, or competence in a particular area. It indicates more than just a basic skill level.