able to preserve

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "able to preserve" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing someone's capability or capacity to maintain or protect something over time. Example: "The new technology is able to preserve the quality of the food for a longer period."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Despite his own personal energy, Duong was at best able to preserve a shakily independent Cambodia.

Encyclopedia Britannica

His son Dagobert I (reigned 629 639) was able to preserve this unity.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The idea is to be able to preserve delicacies, or at least salmon steak, for years.

The New York Times

But despite some concerns, he was able to preserve his sculptures' silhouettes.

The New York Times - Arts

But Vancouver goalie Dan Cloutier, who made 27 saves, was able to preserve the victory.

The New York Times - Sports

The group was by all accounts able to preserve a substantial portion of its force.

The New York Times

"Being able to preserve the building was very important to them," he said.

The New York Times

Only then, Mencius contended, would they be able to preserve their profit, self-interest, wealth, and power.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Swedish culinary traditions reflect the importance of being able to preserve and store food for the winter.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The pessimistic angle: Relying on Peterson, the Viking offense was able to preserve a win despite no passing game whatsoever.

The New York Times

Russia was able to preserve a defence-industrial base that would otherwise have withered from lack of domestic orders.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "able to preserve", consider the specific context. It's most effective when describing a capacity or capability to maintain something of value, whether tangible or intangible. For example, "able to preserve historical artifacts".

Common error

Avoid overuse of "able to preserve" in passive constructions where the actor is unclear. Instead, specify who or what is doing the preserving. For example, instead of "the tradition was able to be preserved", write "the community was able to preserve the tradition".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "able to preserve" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun, indicating the capability or capacity of someone or something to maintain or protect something. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "able to preserve" is a versatile phrase used to express the capability or capacity to maintain something in a desired state. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and broad applicability. It appears frequently in news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts, indicating a formal to neutral register. While alternatives exist, "able to preserve" offers a clear and direct way to communicate the idea of maintaining or protecting something. Its effective use involves considering the specific context and avoiding overuse in passive constructions, thereby ensuring clarity and precision in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capable of conserving

Focuses on the act of keeping something safe from loss or harm.

in a position to safeguard

Highlights the protective aspect and the readiness to defend.

equipped to maintain

Emphasizes the availability of necessary resources or skills.

empowered to protect

Suggests having the authority or power to ensure safety.

has the aptitude to conserve

Implies a natural talent or learned ability to save resources.

in a state to uphold

Highlights the ability to defend or maintain a principle or standard.

competent to retain

Focuses on the skill and ability to keep possession of something.

authorized to sustain

Indicates that someone has official permission or power to support or keep something going.

fit to defend

Underlines the suitability and preparedness to protect something from harm or threat.

ready to shield

Focuses on the readiness to protect something from danger or damage.

FAQs

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

Use "able to preserve" to indicate a capacity or capability to maintain something in its original condition. For example, "This technology is "able to preserve" the freshness of food longer than traditional methods".

What are some alternatives to "able to preserve"?

You can use alternatives such as "capable of conserving", "equipped to maintain", or "in a position to safeguard", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "able to preserve" or "capable of preserving"?

Both "able to preserve" and "capable of preserving" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. The choice depends on personal preference and the flow of the sentence.

What's the difference between "able to preserve" and "allowed to preserve"?

"Able to preserve" indicates a capacity or capability, while "allowed to preserve" suggests permission or authorization. The former implies having the means, while the latter implies having the right.