ability to construct

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ability to construct" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing someone's skill or capability to build, create, or assemble something, whether it be physical objects, ideas, or arguments. Example: "Her ability to construct compelling narratives has made her a successful author."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Being self-employed you have the ability to construct your week.

The Guardian - Money

So is his ability to construct dances that deftly counterpoint groups and individuals.

The New York Times - Arts

They target people with PhDs for their research skills and ability to construct complicated reports.

The Guardian

His use of the No. 11 blade depended on his ability to construct a gestalt of the surgical field first.

The New Yorker

It was a blueprint for the most splendid building imaginable, but did not demonstrate the ability to construct it".

The Guardian

Above all, it is no proof of an ability to construct broad voter coalitions.

The Economist

In December, Chicago Bridge completed the purchase of Howe-Baker for $130.4 million to add the ability to construct natural gas processing plants.

The New York Times

Clarke's ability to construct a fully imagined world — much of it explained in long, witty footnotes — is impressive, and there are some suspenseful moments.

The New Yorker

This apparent ability to construct furniture without instructions might be down to the men's greater ability for mental rotation.

Independent

As a novelist Eekhoud lacked the ability to construct satisfactory stories, and his characters rarely came alive.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Djokovic's ability to construct points was vastly superior to Berdych's, and Berdych looked lost as he searched for a weak spot in Djokovic's game.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "ability to construct", ensure that the context clearly specifies what is being constructed, whether it's a physical object, an argument, or a system.

Common error

Avoid using "ability to construct" without specifying the object of construction. Vague statements lack clarity and weaken the impact of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ability to construct" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a particular capability or skill. Ludwig shows examples across various contexts, from academic writing to news reports, demonstrating its versatility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ability to construct" is a versatile phrase used to describe the capacity to build or create, suitable for various contexts from science and news to formal business settings. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely accepted. To ensure clarity, always specify what is being constructed. Common alternatives include ""skill in creating"" and "capacity to build". By avoiding overgeneralization and providing specific context, you can effectively use "ability to construct" to highlight competence and potential in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

skill in creating

Focuses on the expertise involved in the act of creation.

capacity to build

Emphasizes the inherent potential to erect or assemble.

capability to form

Highlights the power to bring something into a particular shape or state.

aptitude for assembling

Indicates a natural talent for putting parts together.

competence in designing

Stresses the proficiency in planning and fashioning something.

power to generate

Emphasizes the force to bring something into existence.

facility with fabrication

Highlights the ease and skill in manufacturing or building.

potential for developing

Focuses on the future possibility of creating something.

resources for producing

Highlights the inputs and means necessary for construction or manufacturing.

talent for devising

Emphasizes the creative and inventive aspect of constructing something.

FAQs

How can I use "ability to construct" in a sentence?

Use "ability to construct" to describe someone's skill or capability to build, create, or assemble something. For example, "Her "skill in creating" compelling narratives has made her a successful author".

What can I say instead of "ability to construct"?

You can use alternatives like ""skill in creating"", "capacity to build", or "capability to form" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "ability to construct" or "ability of constructing"?

"Ability to construct" is generally preferred as it is more concise and grammatically standard. "Ability of constructing" is less common and can sound awkward in many contexts.

What's the difference between "ability to construct" and "aptitude for assembling"?

"Ability to construct" is a general term for the capacity to build or create, while "aptitude for assembling" implies a natural talent or quickness in putting things together. The former is broader, the latter more specific to assembly tasks.