ability to take

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ability to take" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing someone's capacity or skill to accept or handle something, often in a context of receiving or managing tasks or responsibilities. Example: "Her ability to take on multiple projects at once is impressive and demonstrates her strong work ethic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The ability to take risks is another.

The Economist

Tests measure the ability to take tests.

The Guardian - Tech

Oh, and the ability to take knocks.

The Guardian - Sport

Geraniums are famous for their ability to take abuse.

The New York Times

Development and the ability to take risks is crucial.

The Guardian

We have the ability to take advantage of that.

The New York Times - Sports

Man has lost the ability to take a nap.

The Guardian - Books

"It's the ability to take language and spin it".

The Guardian

Effective communication requires the ability to take others' perspectives.

Cornell University

Advantages include the ability to "take it to the house".

The New York Times

This team has the ability to take off".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "ability to take", ensure the sentence clearly specifies what action or responsibility is being taken. For example, "the ability to take initiative" is clearer than just "the ability to take".

Common error

Avoid using "ability to take" without specifying the object or action. Vague statements like "he has the ability to take" lack clarity and weaken the sentence. Always clarify what is being taken, such as "he has the ability to take responsibility".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ability to take" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the capacity or skill to perform a specific action or handle a particular situation. Ludwig examples showcase varied uses of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

34%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ability to take" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to describe someone's capacity or skill in handling tasks, responsibilities, or actions. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts. With a high frequency of occurrence in news, scientific, and formal business domains, it is crucial to ensure clarity by specifying the action being taken. Common alternatives include "capacity to undertake" and "potential to handle", each with slightly different nuances. The phrase maintains a neutral to professional register, making it suitable for diverse writing scenarios. By avoiding overgeneralization and providing clear context, writers can effectively leverage "ability to take" to convey capability and readiness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capacity to undertake

This alternative emphasizes the potential or capability to begin and carry out a task.

capability to assume

This implies the power or fitness to take on or adopt responsibilities or roles.

potential to handle

Focuses on the inherent possibility or aptitude to manage or deal with something effectively.

aptitude for accepting

Highlights a natural talent or inclination toward receiving or agreeing to something.

skill in managing

This focuses on the learned proficiency in controlling or directing resources or situations.

power to seize

Emphasizes the authority or strength to grasp or take hold of something forcefully or decisively.

facility for adopting

Highlights the ease or smoothness with which someone can take on or implement new ideas or practices.

readiness to embrace

Indicates a willingness and preparedness to accept or adopt something enthusiastically.

talent for capturing

Focuses on the natural ability to seize or record something effectively.

chance to grab

Emphasizes the opportunity or possibility to quickly seize or take advantage of something.

FAQs

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

Use "ability to take" to describe someone's capacity or skill to handle something. For example, "Her "ability to take" on multiple projects is impressive".

What are some alternatives to "ability to take"?

You can use alternatives like "capacity to undertake", "potential to handle", or "aptitude for accepting" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "ability to take" or "capacity to take"?

Both "ability" and "capacity" are suitable. "Ability" refers to the power or skill to do something, while "capacity" refers to the potential to hold or contain. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. For instance, "ability to take" risks versus "capacity to take" on new projects.

How does "ability to take" differ from "willingness to take"?

"Ability to take" refers to the capability or skill to do something, while "willingness to take" refers to the readiness or desire to do it. Someone might have the "ability to take" on more responsibilities but lack the willingness to do so.