a substantial ability to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a substantial ability to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing someone's significant capacity or skill in performing a particular task or function. Example: "The candidate demonstrated a substantial ability to lead teams effectively and manage complex projects."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

"We are blessed to be in countries with a substantial ability to deliver the people of the globe a better quality of life through fossil fuels," he said.

The Washington Post

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

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

55 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

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

Hydrotropes are a class of compounds though amphiphilic in character, they have short hydrophobic regions and thus differ from classical surfactants, yet they display substantial ability to solubilise non-polar compounds in water [Langmuir 13 (1997 3235]].

Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering

More significantly, it is observed that Si-69-treated nano ZnO has substantial ability to enhance the R∞ value of the SBR nanocomposite.

Journal of Nanostructure in Chemistry

This epidemic indicates that CC4821 N. meningitidis had substantial ability to spread extensively and cause invasive disease.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a substantial ability to", ensure that the ability is clearly defined and measurable to emphasize its significance.

Common error

Avoid using "a substantial ability to" for minor skills; reserve it for capabilities that truly make a significant impact or difference.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a substantial ability to" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun. It indicates a significant capacity or skill, enhancing the description of the subject's capabilities. Ludwig AI confirms this with its examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

20%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a substantial ability to" is a grammatically correct and usable way to describe a significant skill or capacity. Although relatively rare in occurrence, as confirmed by Ludwig, it's most commonly found in scientific and news-related contexts. Alternatives include phrases like "considerable capacity to" or "significant aptitude for". When employing this phrase, it's important to ensure that the described ability is genuinely significant and impactful. Remember to reserve it for situations where a high level of competence is being highlighted.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

considerable capacity to

Emphasizes the amount of ability someone possesses.

significant aptitude for

Highlights a natural talent or inclination.

marked talent in

Focuses on exceptional skill in a specific area.

demonstrated competence in

Stresses proven ability through actions.

notable proficiency in

Indicates a high degree of skill gained through practice.

remarkable skill at

Emphasizes the outstanding nature of the ability.

exceptional capability for

Points to a superior level of aptitude.

impressive flair for

Suggests a natural ease and style in performing something.

strong potential for

Highlights future capabilities that have not yet been fully realized.

meaningful power to

This alternative is more direct by using the word 'power'.

FAQs

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

Use "a substantial ability to" to highlight a significant skill or capacity. For instance, "The researcher has "a substantial ability to" analyze complex data sets" clearly indicates a notable skill.

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

Alternatives include phrases like "considerable capacity to", "significant aptitude for", or "marked talent in" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a substantial ability to" in formal writing?

Yes, "a substantial ability to" is suitable for formal writing. It's a clear and professional way to describe a significant skill or capability, especially in reports, proposals, or academic papers.

What distinguishes "a substantial ability to" from "a basic ability to"?

"A substantial ability to" implies a high level of skill or competence, while "a basic ability to" suggests only a fundamental understanding or capacity. The former is used when the skill is noteworthy; the latter when it's merely adequate.