able to formulate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "able to formulate" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing someone's capability to create or develop something, such as ideas, plans, or solutions. Example: "The researcher is able to formulate a comprehensive strategy to address the environmental issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Committee members should serve long enough to become experts, able to formulate incisive supplementaries by themselves.

The Guardian - Opinion

But no one has been able to formulate a basic rule for calving.

The New York Times - Science

Sir Alan won't be able to formulate government policy, yet is allowed to go to cabinet meetings to inform debate.

The Guardian

In 2012, the British public is evidently assumed to be undersized pigmies, scarcely able to formulate thought.

The Guardian - Music

"On the basis of this report they should be able to formulate a very clear plan of action," Pachauri said.

The Guardian

While Sue is not able to formulate her feelings in words, James Proimos's excellent illustrations capture her confusion.

The New York Times - Books

They might know what they're feeling but it seems unlikely they'd understand, let alone be able to formulate it so neatly.

The Guardian - Books

The University of Warwick wants to see that students are able to formulate a rational argument and write it to length.

The Guardian

Administration and defense officials said the strikes came before Mr. Bush's national security team had been able to formulate its own comprehensive policy toward Iraq.

The New York Times

Onsager also was able to formulate a general mathematical expression about the behaviour of nonreversible chemical processes that has been described as the "fourth law of thermodynamics".

Encyclopedia Britannica

Musically, Soulja Boy remains adept at many stripes of hip-hop minimalism, able to formulate sticky songs out of the barest of parts.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "able to formulate", ensure that the object of formulation (e.g., plan, idea, strategy) is clearly specified to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While "able to formulate" is generally acceptable, avoid using it repeatedly in formal writing. Opt for stronger verbs like 'develop', 'create', or 'design' for a more impactful tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "able to formulate" functions as an adjective phrase followed by an infinitive. It describes the capacity or capability to create or express something systematically, as confirmed by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "able to formulate" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression denoting the capability to create or develop something. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability across various contexts. While versatile, it is especially prevalent in scientific, news, and encyclopedia contexts. When writing, ensure that the object being formulated is clearly defined. While generally acceptable, avoiding overuse in favor of stronger verbs can improve the impact of formal writing. Consider related phrases like "capable of formulating" or "skilled in formulating" for variety. By following these tips, you can effectively use "able to formulate" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capable of formulating

Synonymous; replaces "able" with "capable", maintaining a similar level of formality.

skilled in formulating

Emphasizes the expertise or proficiency in the process of formulation.

proficient in developing

Shifts focus to development, suggesting a more elaborate or progressive formulation.

adept at creating

Highlights the creativity and ingenuity involved in the formulation process.

competent to design

Implies a formal or structured approach to formulation, focusing on design aspects.

qualified to construct

Suggests meeting specific criteria or standards for formulation.

in a position to devise

Focuses on the opportunity or circumstances allowing for formulation.

equipped to frame

Emphasizes the structuring and presentation aspects of formulation.

prepared to develop

Highlights the readiness and anticipation involved in formulation.

authorized to establish

Implies official approval or permission to formulate.

FAQs

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

Use "able to formulate" to describe someone's capacity to create or develop something. For example: "The scientist was "able to formulate a" new hypothesis based on the data."

What are some alternatives to "able to formulate"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "capable of formulating", "skilled in formulating", or "proficient in developing".

Is it better to say "able to formulate" or "capable of formulating"?

"Able to formulate" and "capable of formulating" are largely interchangeable. The choice depends on stylistic preference, though "capable" might sound slightly more formal.

What does "able to formulate" mean?

The phrase "able to formulate" means having the capacity or skill to create, develop, or express something in a systematic or organized way.