able to compete with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "able to compete with" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the capability of someone or something to match or rival another in a particular area, such as performance, quality, or price. Example: "Our new product is finally able to compete with the leading brands in the market."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

They will also be able to compete with Facebook friends.

The Guardian

"Now, we will be able to compete with anybody, anywhere".

The New York Times

To be able to compete with United is wonderful.

The Guardian - Sport

They were long able to compete with powered workshops.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Mr. Branson nonetheless says that he will be able to compete with established players like Vodafone.

The New York Times

"I don't see how anyone will be able to compete with it".

The New York Times - Food

"There's no reason why a woman shouldn't be able to compete with a man," Ecclestone said.

The Guardian - Sport

That is something that an MP3 will never be able to compete with".

The Guardian - Music

I think that, in the years ahead, Galen will be able to compete with the Africans".

The New York Times - Sports

Some time soon, he may not be able to compete with himself.

The Guardian - Arts

"We are not able to compete with the Irish sides financially.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "able to compete with", clearly state what specific aspects or qualities allow for the competition. For example, instead of "Our product is able to compete with theirs", specify: "Our product is able to compete with theirs on price and features."

Common error

Avoid using "able to compete with" without defining the parameters of the competition. Overgeneralizing can lead to misinterpretations or unsubstantiated claims. Provide specific details.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "able to compete with" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun, indicating the subject's capacity or capability to rival or contend with another entity. Ludwig provides numerous examples illustrating its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "able to compete with" is a versatile phrase used to express the capacity or potential to rival or contend with another entity. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts, especially in news, science, and business. When using this phrase, it's best to provide specific details about the aspects of competition to avoid overgeneralization. Alternatives like "capable of competing with" and "equipped to contend with" can add nuance or formality to your writing. Remember that clarity and context are key to effectively communicating the competitive potential.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capable of competing with

This alternative replaces "able" with "capable", maintaining the same meaning but with a slightly more formal tone.

competitive with

A more concise phrasing focusing on the competitive nature rather than the ability.

ready to rival

This alternative conveys a sense of immediate readiness to compete, with "rival" emphasizing equivalence in competition.

in a position to compete with

This phrase emphasizes the state or situation that allows competition, adding a layer of context.

a match for

This idiom means someone or something is of equal quality and able to compete successfully.

equipped to contend with

This alternative focuses on having the necessary resources or skills for competition, changing the verb.

equal to competing with

This expresses a sense of parity or equivalence in the ability to compete.

on par with

This indicates being at the same level or standard as something else in terms of competition.

prepared to challenge

This suggests readiness to dispute or fight, which is a more aggressive form of competition.

fit to vie with

Uses "vie" to suggest striving for superiority, which may imply a more intense level of competition, also "fit" has a different nuance than "able".

FAQs

How can I rephrase "able to compete with" for formal writing?

In formal writing, you can substitute "able to compete with" with phrases such as "capable of competing with", "in a position to compete with", or "equipped to contend with" to maintain a professional tone.

What does it mean to be "able to compete with" someone or something?

Being "able to compete with" signifies possessing the necessary qualities, resources, or skills to rival or contend effectively with another entity in a specific context. It implies a capacity for matching or challenging the performance, quality, or standing of the other party.

Is there a difference between "able to compete with" and "competitive with"?

"Able to compete with" focuses on the capacity or capability to engage in competition, whereas "competitive with" emphasizes the state of being in active competition or having similar qualities that make competition possible. The former suggests potential, while the latter suggests current engagement or inherent characteristics.

When should I use "able to compete with" instead of "a match for"?

Use "able to compete with" when highlighting the capacity or potential to engage in competition. Opt for "a match for" when emphasizing equality in quality or strength in an existing competitive situation.