ability to obtain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ability to obtain" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing someone's capacity or skill to acquire something, whether it's information, resources, or skills. Example: "Her ability to obtain critical data quickly made her an invaluable asset to the research team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Most borrowers are seeing no evidence of a change in their ability to obtain credit".

The New York Times

Then there's the promised ability to obtain a real-world racing licence by playing the game.

The Guardian - Tech

The letter with Knight's intention to sue said the university's actions interfered with his ability to obtain subsequent employment.

The New York Times - Sports

Among Asio's other new powers is the ability to obtain massive warrants for effectively the whole of the internet.

The Guardian - Opinion

President Clinton said the rules would limit companies' ability to obtain sensitive medical information for the purpose of marketing.

The New York Times

Or has the ability to obtain such a dream just wishful thinking today?

The New York Times

Although it used its pipeline assets last week to secure a $1 billion credit line, the company's ability to obtain additional financing is unclear to investors.

The New York Times

It said it rejected the offer because of concerns about the takeover being approved by antitrust regulators and ArvinMeritor's ability to obtain financing.

The New York Times

In fact, your ability to obtain interviews is a sign that you are doing something right — sending out a résumé and cover letter that appeal to hiring managers.

The New York Times

Industrial relations settings that affect people's ability to obtain a living wage, decent conditions, and a secure job, also affect households' ability to manage their costs of living.

The Guardian - Opinion

Although I have never had any dealings with NatWest before and do not owe them any money myself, the court hearings have affected my ability to obtain credit.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing qualifications or requirements, use "ability to obtain" to clearly state the necessity of acquiring something (e.g., "The job requires the ability to obtain a security clearance").

Common error

Avoid using "ability to obtain" when a simpler verb like "get" or "acquire" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily formal and complex.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ability to obtain" functions as a noun phrase acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It typically indicates the capacity or power to acquire something, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples showcasing diverse contexts, such as the ability to obtain credit or information.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

34%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "ability to obtain" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that signifies the capacity or skill to acquire something. According to Ludwig, its usage spans diverse contexts, from formal news reports to scientific research. While versatile, it's advisable to use simpler alternatives like "can get" or "acquire" in less formal settings to avoid unnecessary complexity. The phrase's effectiveness lies in its clarity and emphasis on the capability to achieve acquisition, making it a valuable tool in formal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capacity to acquire

Emphasizes the inherent potential or capability to gain something.

capability to secure

Highlights the power and means to ensure the acquisition of something.

potential to gain

Focuses on the possibility and aptitude for achieving a desired outcome or possession.

means of acquiring

Indicates the methods or resources available for obtaining something.

skill in attaining

Highlights proficiency and expertise in reaching a certain level or acquiring something.

power to procure

Emphasizes the authority and control needed to obtain something, often through formal channels.

facility in getting

Focuses on the ease and smoothness with which something can be acquired.

access to attain

Highlights the opportunity and right to achieve a particular goal.

option to secure

Presents the choice and possibility to obtain something, emphasizing the element of optionality.

chance of gaining

Indicates the likelihood or probability of acquiring something, often implying a degree of uncertainty.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "ability to obtain" to sound more concise?

Consider using simpler alternatives such as "capacity to acquire", "skill in securing", or just "can get" depending on the context. For example, instead of "demonstrate the ability to obtain funding", you could say "can secure funding".

What's the difference between "ability to obtain" and "opportunity to obtain"?

"Ability to obtain" refers to the inherent or developed capacity to acquire something, while "opportunity to obtain" refers to the availability of a chance or situation to acquire something. One refers to a skill, the other to a situation.

When is it most appropriate to use the phrase "ability to obtain"?

This phrase is most appropriate in formal writing or when emphasizing the specific capability or skill required to acquire something. It's useful when the act of obtaining something requires a specific competence.

Are there contexts where "capacity to acquire" is preferable to "ability to obtain"?

Yes, "capacity to acquire" might be preferred when discussing an inherent or potential ability, whereas "ability to obtain" is better suited when describing a demonstrated or developed skill. But at the end, both can be swapped most of the times.