able to use

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "able to use" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate someone has the capability to use something. For example, "This software is user-friendly, so even people with minimal computer experience should be able to use it with ease."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Are they able to use the subway?

The New York Times

"Suez will be able to use it".

The New York Times

We should be able to use it.

The Guardian - Arts

Would she be able to use it?

The Washington Post

Any voter should be able to use a paper ballot.

The New York Times

The problem was actually being able to use it efficiently.

The New York Times

If I'm still able to use casual French.

The Guardian

Now we'll be able to use the existing phone line".

The New York Times

Jobcentre staff want claimants to be able to use smartphones.

The Guardian

"But I think I've been able to use my fear.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

They won't be able to use Lebanon against Israel".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a skill or capability, use "able to use" to clearly communicate the capacity to operate or handle something effectively. For example, "The new software is designed so that anyone is "able to use" it regardless of their technical expertise."

Common error

Avoid using "able to use" when a passive construction is more appropriate. For example, instead of saying "The data is able to use for analysis", prefer "The data can be used for analysis".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "able to use" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun, indicating the capacity or skill to operate or handle something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "able to use" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to express capability, permission, or opportunity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's frequently found in diverse contexts like News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources. While generally neutral in tone, remember to consider more formal alternatives like "capable of utilizing" in academic writing. A key takeaway is to ensure that "able to use" accurately reflects capability, not passive voice scenarios. By understanding its nuances and considering related phrases, you can wield "able to use" with precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capable of using

Emphasizes inherent capability rather than a specific permission or opportunity.

can utilize

A more concise and direct way of expressing the ability to use something, often used in technical contexts.

in a position to use

Highlights the circumstances that allow usage, suggesting a specific context or situation.

eligible to use

Implies that certain criteria or conditions have been met to allow usage.

authorized to use

Suggests formal permission or approval to use something.

permitted to use

Similar to authorized, but can also refer to less formal permission.

free to use

Indicates a lack of restrictions or limitations on usage.

entitled to use

Suggests a right or claim to use something, often legally or contractually.

equipped to use

Focuses on having the necessary tools, knowledge or resources to use something effectively.

empowered to use

Emphasizes the authority or confidence granted to use something.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "able to use" to sound more formal?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases such as "capable of utilizing", "in a position to use", or "authorized to use", depending on the specific meaning you wish to convey.

What's the difference between "able to use" and "can use"?

While both phrases express the ability to use something, "can use" is generally more informal. "Able to use" often suggests a learned or acquired ability, while "can use" implies a more general capacity.

Is it ever incorrect to use "able to use"?

While grammatically correct, "able to use" might sound awkward in some contexts. Consider alternative phrasing if it disrupts the flow or sounds repetitive. For example, you could use "capable of using" or "can utilize" instead.

How to decide between "able to use", "allowed to use" and "permitted to use"?

"Able to use" indicates a capability, while "allowed to use" and "permitted to use" refer to permission. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects whether you are referring to skill/capacity or authorization.