ability for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ability for" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to express the skill or capacity to do something. For example, "He had the ability for problem solving."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"He has an innate ability for that".

The New York Times

We alone evolved the ability for language.

The New York Times - Books

This is our ability for integrative thinking.

Harvard Business Review

"That clearly cuts down their ability for discretionary spending".

The New York Times

The ability for ordinary GPs to change things will diminish.

The Guardian

"You lose your ability for personal contact and relationships.

The New York Times

By contrast, there is no equivalent ability for images.

MIT Technology Review

My ability for public speaking goes back to her.

The Washington Post

Should we provide ability for users to release data?

Harvard University

QS3 isolate gave the highest ability for production of carotenoids.

Industrial Crops and Products

Culturally competent care is an essential ability for nursing students.

Nurse Education Today

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "ability for" when referring to a general skill or potential, especially when discussing inherent qualities. For instance, "She has an exceptional "ability for" learning new languages".

Common error

Avoid using "ability for" excessively in formal or academic writing. Alternatives like "capacity for" or "competence in" may sound more professional and refined.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ability for" functions as a noun phrase acting as the subject complement or object of a preposition. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usage in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ability for" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that describes someone's aptitude or potential in a specific area. Ludwig AI analysis indicates its versatility, evidenced by its presence in various contexts, including news, science, and business. While it is generally safe to use, remember that more formal alternatives like "capacity for" or "competence in" may be preferable in certain academic or professional settings. To make sure your writings are always top-notch, refer to this analysis whenever in doubt and follow the best practices to ensure clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capacity for

Replaces "ability" with "capacity", emphasizing potential or maximum amount.

capability for

Similar to "capacity", but emphasizes the power to perform a specific action.

aptitude for

Substitutes "ability" with "aptitude", highlighting a natural talent or inclination.

talent for

Replaces "ability" with "talent", focusing on innate skill or gift.

skill for

Substitutes "ability" with "skill", emphasizing learned proficiency.

proficiency in

Similar to "competence", emphasizing a high level of skill.

facility for

Highlights ease and dexterity in performing a task.

potential for

Replaces "ability" with "potential", indicating future capability.

competence in

Focuses on demonstrated proficiency and expertise.

knack for

Implies a natural, intuitive skill or talent.

FAQs

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

You can use "ability for" to describe someone's aptitude or potential in a specific area, as in "He has a remarkable "ability for" problem-solving".

What are some alternatives to "ability for"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "capacity for", "aptitude for", or "talent for".

Is it always correct to use "ability for"?

While grammatically correct, "ability for" might not always be the most appropriate choice in formal writing. Consider alternatives for a more refined tone.

What's the difference between "ability for" and "ability in"?

"Ability for" generally refers to a potential or inherent skill, whereas "ability in" often implies demonstrated competence in a particular area. For example, "ability for" learning vs. "ability in" mathematics.