ability to read

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ability to read" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing someone's skill or capacity to comprehend written text. Example: "The ability to read is fundamental for academic success and lifelong learning."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"The ability to read an opponent.

The New Yorker

Ability to read music required.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

We've lost the ability to read anonymously.

The Guardian - Tech

Ability to read music not required.

Stanford University

Prerequisite: ability to read Homeric Greek.

Cornell University

Are young people losing the ability to read properly?

The Guardian - Opinion

Poker, meanwhile, has given him the ability to read people.

The Guardian - Sport

"The area affected," he relates, "was my ability to read.

The New Yorker

They rely on children's ability to read, and they're boring".

The New York Times

Michael has the ability to read a guest instantly.

The Guardian - Travel

I think I'm losing the ability to read.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the importance of "ability to read", emphasize its role in specific contexts such as academic achievement or professional development.

Common error

Avoid using "ability to read" when you mean overall literacy, which includes writing and comprehension. Specify if you're solely referring to the act of reading text.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ability to read" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the capacity or skill someone possesses to understand written text. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

33%

Science

32%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ability to read" is a fundamental expression denoting the capacity to understand written text. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across diverse fields such as News & Media, Academia, and Science. While "ability to read" is broadly applicable, it's essential to distinguish it from overall literacy, which encompasses writing and comprehension. To enhance clarity, specify the context in which reading skills are relevant, such as academic achievement or professional development. Related phrases include “reading proficiency” and “reading comprehension”, which offer alternative ways to express reading capability. Understanding these nuances ensures precise and impactful communication about literacy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reading skill

A more concise way to refer to the ability to read.

skill in reading

Highlights expertise or dexterity in reading.

capacity to read

Emphasizes the potential or inherent capability to read.

competence in reading

Stresses the adequacy and qualification in reading.

reading proficiency

Emphasizes the level of skill and competence in reading.

reading comprehension

Highlights the understanding derived from reading.

facility with reading

Suggests an ease and aptitude for reading.

aptitude for reading

Implies a natural talent or inclination towards reading.

literacy skills

Focuses on the broader set of skills related to reading and writing.

power of reading

Highlights the impact of being able to read.

FAQs

How can I improve my "ability to read" efficiently?

Consider speed reading techniques, active reading strategies, and focusing on comprehension exercises. Regular practice with diverse texts is also crucial.

What is the difference between "reading skill" and "ability to read"?

While similar, "reading skill" often implies a developed proficiency, whereas "ability to read" can refer to the basic capacity to decode text.

What factors affect someone's "ability to read"?

Factors can include education level, cognitive abilities, access to resources, and potential learning disabilities.

Which is more important: "fluency in reading" or "reading comprehension"?

Both are crucial. "Fluency in reading" allows for quicker processing, while "reading comprehension" ensures understanding of the material. They are interconnected for effective reading.