ability to communicate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ability to communicate" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing someone's skills or competencies in expressing thoughts, ideas, or information effectively. Example: "Her ability to communicate clearly has greatly improved team collaboration."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Any laws that restrict your ability to pay for communication restrict your ability to communicate".

The New York Times

If they have further communications about value, they have the ability to communicate with us".

The New York Times

The ability to communicate easily, he replied.

The New Yorker

We have the ability to communicate.

The New York Times

She's got a great ability to communicate.

Independent

Fighting fear requires the ability to communicate.

The New York Times

Ability to communicate effectively with programmers.

Cornell University

CH Our ability to communicate thought – the democratisation of thought.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

You've got to have the ability to communicate.

The New York Times

He had also lost the ability to communicate his grief.

The New Yorker

He freed a sixth, but limited his ability to communicate.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When emphasizing the development of skills, use "ability to communicate" in conjunction with adverbs like 'effectively' or 'clearly' to specify the quality of communication.

Common error

Avoid replacing the straightforward phrase "ability to communicate" with overly technical or jargon-heavy alternatives that might obscure the intended meaning and reduce clarity. Simplicity is key.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ability to communicate" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a capability or competence. It often serves as the subject or object of a sentence, as seen in Ludwig's examples, where it describes essential skills or qualities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ability to communicate" is a widely used and grammatically correct term that describes the capacity to effectively convey information. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Academia. The phrase's versatility and clear meaning make it a valuable asset in professional and personal communication. To enhance its impact, consider pairing it with adverbs to specify the quality of communication, such as 'ability to communicate clearly'. Steer clear of overly technical jargon when expressing this important skill.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

communication skills

Focuses on the developed proficiency in conveying information.

capacity for communication

Emphasizes the inherent potential or aptitude for communicating.

skill in communicating

Highlights the expertise and dexterity in the act of communication.

competence in communication

Indicates a demonstrated level of proficiency and effectiveness.

art of communication

Suggests a refined and skillful approach to conveying messages.

power of expression

Highlights the impact and effectiveness of conveying thoughts and feelings.

facility in communicating

Implies an ease and naturalness in conveying information.

talent for communication

Highlights a natural aptitude and gift for conveying ideas effectively.

communicative competence

Refers to the overall ability to use language appropriately in social interactions.

verbal proficiency

Focuses specifically on the skill and fluency in using spoken language.

FAQs

How can I improve my "ability to communicate" effectively?

Practicing active listening, seeking feedback, and focusing on clarity and conciseness are effective strategies. Consider joining a public speaking group or taking a communication skills workshop.

What are some synonyms for "ability to communicate"?

You can use alternatives like "communication skills", "skill in communicating", or "capacity for communication" depending on the context.

Why is the "ability to communicate" important in the workplace?

Effective communication fosters collaboration, reduces misunderstandings, improves team performance, and enhances overall productivity. It's essential for conveying ideas, resolving conflicts, and building strong relationships.

How does "ability to communicate" differ from "verbal proficiency"?

"Ability to communicate" is a broader term encompassing both verbal and non-verbal aspects, while "verbal proficiency" specifically refers to skill and fluency in spoken language.