able to crack

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "able to crack" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the ability to solve a problem, understand something difficult, or break a code. Example: "She is able to crack complex puzzles that others find impossible."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"But we have not been able to crack the code".

The New York Times - Science

The league has not been able to crack that cycle.

The New York Times - Sports

As doubles players with other partners, they haven't been able to crack the top 100.

The New York Times - Sports

"But the Republicans have just not been able to crack it".

The New York Times

It's a problem TV has not really been able to crack yet.

The Guardian - Books

He was soon able to crack into well-known programs, where he found hidden messages left by their creators.

The New Yorker

"We are placing people in the kinds of jobs we were never able to crack before," Ms. Martin told me.

The New York Times

We stayed on message, as you say in campaigns, and we were able to crack this very difficult issue.

The New Yorker

Will the Rangers' top two prospects, Pavel Brendl and Jamie Lundmark, be able to crack the lineup next season?

The New York Times - Sports

"No one's been able to crack the N.F.C.-A.F.C. code," Sean McManus, the president of CBS Sports, said.

The New York Times - Sports

You might be able to crack the dress code in time, but the euphemisms would take several lifetimes to master.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "able to crack", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being cracked, whether it's a code, a problem, or a joke.

Common error

Avoid using "able to crack" when a simpler term like "solve" or "understand" is more appropriate and precise. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound less sophisticated.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "able to crack" primarily functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun, indicating the capacity or capability of someone or something to solve a problem, understand a complex issue, or break a code. Ludwig examples confirm this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "able to crack" is a versatile expression used to describe the capacity to solve problems, decipher codes, or understand complex issues. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used. With its neutral tone, "able to crack" finds frequent application in news and media, as well as in more informal contexts like wikis. While alternatives like "capable of solving" exist, "able to crack" maintains a distinct flavor suitable for a range of writing styles. Remember to ensure clarity in what is being cracked and avoid overuse for a more polished writing style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capable of solving

Replaces "able to crack" with a more formal synonym for solving a problem.

able to decipher

Specifically refers to the ability to decode or understand something complex.

capable of resolving

Similar to solving, but often used in the context of conflicts or disputes.

competent to break

Suggests having the necessary skills to overcome a barrier or obstacle.

skilled at unraveling

Implies a talent for understanding intricate or mysterious situations.

equipped to handle

Focuses on preparedness and having the right tools or knowledge.

prepared to solve

Emphasizes readiness and intention to address a problem.

has the capacity to understand

Highlights the inherent ability to grasp complex concepts.

in a position to break

Indicates the right circumstances or authority to overcome something.

can overcome

Directly expresses the ability to successfully deal with difficulties.

FAQs

How can I use "able to crack" in a sentence?

You can use "able to crack" to describe the capacity to solve a problem, understand a complex issue, or break a code. For example, "She is "able to crack" complex puzzles."

What are some alternatives to "able to crack"?

Alternatives include "capable of solving", "able to decipher", or "competent to break", depending on the specific context.

Is it more formal to say "able to crack" or "capable of solving"?

Capable of solving generally sounds more formal than "able to crack", which can be used in both formal and informal settings.

When is it appropriate to use "able to crack" literally versus figuratively?

Literally, "able to crack" can refer to physically breaking something. Figuratively, it usually refers to solving a problem or understanding something difficult. The context should make the intended meaning clear.