ability to perform

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ability to perform" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing someone's skills or capacity to carry out a specific task or function. Example: "The candidate demonstrated a strong ability to perform under pressure during the interview."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

The physicochemical and performance requirements define a lubricant identity and its ability to perform these functions.

International Journal of Industrial Chemistry

"This just hasn't affected our ability to perform," he said.

The New York Times

His ability to perform skilful balancing acts was impressive.

The Guardian - Opinion

Its ability to perform sterile processing was also questioned.

The New York Times - Health

He had a stroke two years later and lost the ability to perform.

The New York Times

"I look at their ability to perform the part," she said.

The New York Times

He studied how the brain supports the human ability to perform skills like music or math.

The New York Times

"In these games the pressure builds and the ability to perform under that pressure is everything.

The New York Times - Sports

Our senior managers must demonstrate the ability to perform like a chief executive," he says.

The Guardian

Unlike race and gender, age has necessary implications for anyone's ability to perform the job.

The Guardian - Opinion

"I think he has the ability to perform well when the team does it for him.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's "ability to perform", be specific about the context. Instead of saying someone has the "ability to perform", specify the type of task, such as "ability to perform under pressure" or "ability to perform complex calculations".

Common error

Avoid redundant phrases like "demonstrated the ability to perform well". Instead, simply state "demonstrated the ability to perform" or "performed well" for a more concise and impactful statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ability to perform" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the capacity or competence to carry out a specific action or task. Ludwig's examples show it used in various contexts, from describing a lubricant's function to an athlete's capability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ability to perform" is a versatile and frequently used noun phrase that describes the capacity or competence to execute a specific action or task. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various contexts, including news, science, and business. While generally neutral to professional in register, it's important to be specific about the context and avoid redundant phrasing for clarity and impact. Consider alternatives like "capacity to execute" or "capability to undertake" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capacity to execute

Emphasizes the potential or inherent capability to carry out a task.

capability to undertake

Highlights the power and resources needed to begin and complete a task.

potential to achieve

Focuses on the possibility of reaching a desired outcome.

aptitude for executing

Stresses the natural talent or learned skill in carrying out a specific action.

skill in performing

Highlights expertise developed through practice or training.

competence to accomplish

Underscores the state of being adequately qualified or capable.

proficiency in executing

Highlights a high degree of skill and expertise.

effectiveness in acting

Emphasizes the successful production of a desired result.

power to implement

Stresses the authority and means to put something into effect.

capacity to fulfill

Highlights the ability to meet requirements or expectations.

FAQs

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

Use "ability to perform" to describe someone's competence in a task, such as, "The athlete's "ability to perform" under pressure is remarkable."

What are some alternatives to "ability to perform"?

Consider using alternatives like "capacity to execute", "capability to undertake", or "potential to achieve" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "ability to perform well"?

While grammatically correct, "ability to perform well" can be redundant. Consider using "ability to perform" or simply stating that someone "performs well" for conciseness.

How does "ability to perform" differ from "skill in performing"?

"Ability to perform" refers to a general competence, while "skill in performing" emphasizes expertise developed through practice or training.