ability of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'ability of' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to the capacity or capability to do something. For example: "The ability of the human brain to process information quickly is amazing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"The ability of C.I.O.

The New York Times

The military ability of the Northern Alliance is still uncertain.

The New York Times

Describes the ability of the nervous system to repair itself.

The New Yorker

I believe in the innate ability of Americans to survive.

The New York Times

This affects the ability of corals to grow back.

The Guardian

Is there an ability of members to respond?

The Guardian

The ability of the US to shape outcomes is diminishing.

The Guardian

The bitter-reducing ability of salt is a marvel.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The ability of the book to exceed its premise.

The New Yorker

The technical ability of the dancers is astonishing.

The New Yorker

This affects the ability of trees to disperse and regenerate.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing a specific skill or capability, consider using more descriptive alternatives such as "expertise", "competence", or "aptitude" for greater precision.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on the phrase "ability of" in every context. Vary your language with more specific terms like "proficiency", "skill", or "capacity" to enhance clarity and engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ability of" functions primarily as a noun phrase modifier, specifying a particular attribute or capability. As Ludwig AI indicates, it denotes the capacity or power to perform a specific action or function. The examples show it modifying various nouns to indicate their inherent capabilities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

34%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase “ability of” is a grammatically sound and versatile construction used to denote the capacity or capability to perform an action or function. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is perfectly correct and usable. It is most frequently encountered in news and media, scientific, and academic contexts, indicating its wide applicability across various registers. While generally neutral, varying your language with more precise terms like "expertise" or "competence" can enhance clarity. When using “ability,” remember that it is often followed by the preposition "of" with a noun phrase or "to" with a verb.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capacity for

Replaces "ability" with "capacity", emphasizing the potential to hold or contain something, whether physical or abstract.

capability to

Substitutes "ability" with "capability", highlighting the inherent potential or skill to perform a specific action.

potential for

Uses "potential" instead of "ability", focusing on the possibility of development or achievement.

skill in

Replaces "ability" with "skill", emphasizing a learned or acquired proficiency.

power to

Uses "power" instead of "ability", suggesting the strength or authority to do something.

aptitude for

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

facility with

Replaces "ability" with "facility", highlighting ease and competence in performing a task.

expertise in

Uses "expertise" instead of "ability", emphasizing specialized knowledge or skill.

competence in

Substitutes "ability" with "competence", highlighting the quality of being adequately qualified or capable.

talent for

Replaces "ability" with "talent", focusing on a natural or innate aptitude.

FAQs

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

The phrase "ability of" is used to describe the capacity or power to do something. For example, "The "ability of the brain" to adapt is remarkable".

What are some alternatives to "ability of"?

Alternatives include "capacity for", "capability to", or "potential for", depending on the specific context.

Is it always necessary to use "of" after "ability"?

Yes, when "ability" is followed by a noun or noun phrase specifying what one is able to do, "of" is essential. You can also use "ability to" followed by a verb.

What is the difference between "ability of" and "ability to"?

"Ability of" is typically followed by a noun or noun phrase (e.g., "the "ability of the company""), while "ability to" is followed by a verb (e.g., "the "ability to innovate"").