able to gain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "able to gain" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the capacity or capability to acquire something, whether it be knowledge, skills, or resources. Example: "With hard work and dedication, she was able to gain the respect of her peers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

They were able to gain access later.

Independent

You'd think he'd be able to gain on them there.

The New Yorker

Neither party is able to gain a lasting advantage.

The New York Times - Magazine

One of the workers was able to gain his footing.

The New York Times

"We were able to gain our respect as a nation".

The New York Times

Mr. Espinal and Ms. Towns were able to gain access.

The New York Times

Today, one may be able to gain more scholarly and updated history from other authors.

The New Yorker

Mr. Forsee said those cable companies would be able to gain access to Sprint's WiMax network.

The New York Times - Tech

Sought-after candidates may be able to gain extra thinking time.

The Guardian

It's been great to be able to gain experience with such a variety of people.

The Guardian

Will Pine be able to gain absolution without another traumatic loss?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using stronger verbs or more specific nouns to add nuance. For example, instead of "able to gain experience", you could say "able to acquire expertise".

Common error

Avoid using "able to gain" excessively in passive constructions. Instead of "information was able to be gained", opt for the active voice: "researchers gained information".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "able to gain" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun or pronoun, indicating the capacity or potential to acquire, achieve, or obtain something. As supported by Ludwig's examples, this phrase often precedes a noun that represents the specific thing that can be acquired.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

18%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "able to gain" is a grammatically sound and versatile phrase used to express the capacity or potential to acquire or achieve something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and highlights its frequent use across diverse contexts, including news, encyclopedias, science, and business. When writing, it's important to specify what is being acquired and consider using stronger verbs to improve clarity and impact. Avoid overuse in passive voice to maintain a strong, active writing style. By following these guidelines, you can effectively use "able to gain" to convey capability and opportunity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capable of obtaining

Replaces "able to" with "capable of" and "gain" with "obtain", focusing on the capacity to get something.

in a position to acquire

Emphasizes the state of being ready to get something.

has the potential to achieve

Highlights the possibility of reaching a goal.

can attain

A more concise way of saying that something is achievable.

is likely to secure

Focuses on the probability of getting something, often in a competitive context.

may procure

A more formal alternative using "procure" for "gain".

in line to develop

Focuses on progressing and improving.

eligible to receive

Highlights the qualification aspect of acquiring something.

fit to capture

Focuses on the suitability and readiness to take advantage.

set to accomplish

Emphasizes the preparation and intention of achieving something.

FAQs

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

"Able to gain" indicates the possibility or capacity to acquire something. For example: "Students are "able to gain" valuable skills through internships".

What are some alternatives to "able to gain"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "capable of obtaining", "in a position to acquire", or "has the potential to achieve".

Is it correct to say "able to gained"?

No, "able to gained" is grammatically incorrect. The correct form is "able to gain", where "gain" is the base form of the verb.

What's the difference between "able to gain" and "likely to gain"?

"Able to gain" suggests a capability or possibility, while "likely to gain" indicates a higher probability or expectation of acquiring something.