ability to perform a task

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of the sentence "ability to perform a task" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase can be used to describe a person's capacity to complete a task, or a machine's efficacy in carrying out an operation. For example: "The software was designed to increase the efficiency of the factory, doubling its ability to perform tasks."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Previous studies have shown patients' self-efficacy (i.e. their perceived ability to perform a task) to both influence task performance directly [ 27, 28] and mediate the relation between pain-related cognitions and outcome [ 29, 30].

BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

But that also made people worse at automaticity, or the ability to perform a task without really thinking about it.

MIT Technology Review

The ability to perform a task once doesn't prove that you can repeatedly perform various tasks day in day out, let alone work.

The Guardian - Opinion

West is, however, aware that his disability could affect how a potential employer may perceive his ability to perform a task.

The Guardian

When TMS interferes with the subject's ability to perform a task, the implication is that the area of the brain activated with TMS is indispensable to the task.

Encyclopedia Britannica

When interviewed, aspiring journalists with disabilities said the issues that concerned them most were: whether or not to disclose their disability in a covering letter with their CV; if they had the right image for the employer; and whether or not the disability would affect their ability, or perceived ability, to perform a task.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Both women's global self-esteem (which captures self-assessed overall worth) and task-specific self-efficacy (which captures the self-assessed ability to perform a certain task) have been shown to be predictors of self-limiting behaviour in certain leadership tasks [ 28].

BMC Medical Education

Talent, as the word has traditionally been understood in the arts, refers to the ability to perform a creative task with excellence.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This study evaluates the effect of gender, handle size and vibration levels on the ability to perform a precision task and on ratings of discomfort and difficulty.

International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics

Moreover, these methods often overlook the complexity of actually implementing the game features and do not consider the effects that game features have on individuals' ability to perform a target task.

Computers in Human Behavior

That is, an individual's ability to perform a specific task.

Asian-Pacific Journal of Second and Foreign Language Education

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's qualifications for a job, clearly state their "ability to perform a task" relevant to the role. This provides concrete evidence of their suitability.

Common error

Avoid vague claims about someone's capabilities. Instead of saying someone has the "ability to perform a task", specify the types of tasks they excel at to make your statement more credible and impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ability to perform a task" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the capacity or skill required to execute a specific action. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely accepted.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

37%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Academia

4%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "ability to perform a task" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to describe someone's competence or skill in executing a specific activity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, ranging from scientific and academic discussions to news reports and everyday conversations.

While the phrase is widely accepted, it's crucial to be specific and avoid vague claims about someone's capabilities. Consider alternative phrases like "capacity to execute a task" or "skill to undertake a task" to fine-tune your message. By understanding the nuances and potential pitfalls associated with this phrase, you can effectively communicate someone's abilities and ensure your writing is both accurate and impactful.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capacity to execute a task

Replaces "ability" with "capacity" and "perform" with "execute", emphasizing the potential to carry out the task.

skill to undertake a task

Substitutes "ability" with "skill" and "perform" with "undertake", highlighting the expertise required.

competence in completing a task

Uses "competence" instead of "ability", stressing the adequacy and qualification for finishing the task.

proficiency at handling a task

Replaces "ability" with "proficiency" and "perform" with "handling", emphasizing the expertise in managing the task.

aptitude for carrying out a task

Substitutes "ability" with "aptitude", focusing on the natural inclination and potential to do the task.

potential to accomplish a task

Uses "potential" instead of "ability", highlighting the possibility and future capability of doing the task.

expertise in executing a task

Replaces "ability" with "expertise", focusing on the specialized knowledge and skill to execute the task effectively.

talent for undertaking a task

Substitutes "ability" with "talent", emphasizing the natural gift or innate skill for the task.

faculty to manage a task

Uses "faculty" instead of "ability", highlighting the inherent power or skill to manage the task.

capability to perform a function

Replaces "task" with "function", focusing on a specific duty or activity that needs to be executed.

FAQs

How can I improve my "ability to perform a task"?

Improving your "ability to perform a task" involves consistent practice, focused training, and seeking feedback to identify areas for improvement. Breaking down the task into smaller, manageable steps can also make it less daunting.

What is the difference between "ability to perform a task" and "capacity to complete a task"?

"Ability to perform a task" generally refers to the demonstrated skill, while "capacity to complete a task" often suggests the potential or maximum capability that may not yet be fully realized. Ability is more about current performance, while capacity is about potential performance.

Are there synonyms for "ability to perform a task"?

Yes, synonyms include "skill to undertake a task", "competence in completing a task", and "proficiency at handling a task". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

How does self-efficacy relate to the "ability to perform a task"?

Self-efficacy, which is the belief in one's "ability to perform a task", significantly influences whether someone will attempt a task, how much effort they will invest, and how persistent they will be when facing challenges. High self-efficacy often leads to improved performance.