achieve the ability

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "achieve the ability" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It means to successfully gain the skill or capability to do something. Example: After years of practice, she was finally able to achieve the ability to play the piano with ease.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

The Western countries and Israel suspect it is meant to achieve the ability to make nuclear weapons.

The New York Times

It is from this mathematics of learning and big data that a machine can achieve the ability to generate 'intelligent' decisions.

The Guardian

To achieve the ability to adapt on these new requirements autonomous cooperating logistic processes seem to be an appropriate method.

Robotics and Computer-Integrated Manufacturing

Iran contends the enrichment is for peaceful purposes, but much of the world suspects it is meant to achieve the ability to make atomic weapons.

The New York Times

Western powers suspect that Iran is enriching uranium as part of an effort to achieve the ability to make nuclear weapons.

The New York Times

This is a dictator who holds a blood grudge against us, who has now the ability or is trying to achieve the ability to obtain those weapons that would permit him to murder millions of Americans.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

Within a few generations, Babylonian astronomers had achieved the ability to predict the behaviour of the Moon and the planets.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Skills achieved; the ability to tell the difference between a rock and a clump of mud and throwing stones really far.

The Guardian

Analysts and defense officials in the region said that North Korea was still years away from achieving the ability that Mr. Kim claimed.

The New York Times

For one, the prospect of Iran's achieving the ability to make a nuclear bomb has cooled European enthusiasm for investing.

The New York Times

In the few cases where this strategy is successful, the partnership develops into an alliance of equals or the partners separate after the weak partner has achieved the ability to compete on its own.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "achieve the ability", specify the area or skill you are referring to. For example, instead of saying "They want to achieve the ability", specify "They want to achieve the ability to speak French fluently".

Common error

Avoid using "achieve the ability" to describe trivial or easily attainable skills. Reserve it for significant accomplishments that require substantial effort or training.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "achieve the ability" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the successful attainment of a specific skill or competence. Ludwig shows numerous examples where it describes the process of gaining a particular capacity, often through effort or training. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "achieve the ability" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that denotes the successful attainment of a skill or competence. Ludwig's analysis reveals that this phrase functions primarily to highlight the gaining of a particular capacity, often through dedicated effort. It is commonly found in news, scientific, and general writing, and Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness. When employing this phrase, ensure you clearly specify the skill in question and avoid using it for trivial accomplishments. Related phrases include "attain the capacity" and "gain the skill", offering subtle variations in meaning. By following these guidelines, you can effectively communicate the successful acquisition of new capabilities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

attain the capacity

Focuses on reaching a specific level of capability.

gain the skill

Emphasizes acquiring expertise through learning or practice.

develop the aptitude

Highlights the growth of a natural talent or inclination.

acquire the proficiency

Stresses obtaining a high degree of competence in a specific area.

cultivate the talent

Suggests nurturing and refining an existing talent.

secure the competence

Focuses on firmly establishing competence.

master the art

Emphasizes achieving a high level of skill, especially in a creative field.

earn the qualification

Implies gaining recognition or certification of competence.

reach the potential

Highlights the fulfillment of innate abilities.

foster the know-how

Suggests encouraging and developing practical knowledge and skills.

FAQs

How can I use "achieve the ability" in a sentence?

You can use "achieve the ability" to describe gaining a new skill or competence, like "After years of practice, she managed to "achieve the ability" to play the piano perfectly".

What's a good alternative to "achieve the ability"?

Alternatives to "achieve the ability" include "attain the capacity", "gain the skill", or "develop the aptitude", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "achieve the ability" or "gain the ability"?

"Achieve the ability" and "gain the ability" are quite similar. "Achieve" implies a successful culmination of effort, while "gain" simply means to acquire. Choose the word that best fits the specific context of your sentence.

What does it mean to "achieve the ability"?

To ""achieve the ability"" means to successfully reach a point where you are capable of doing something. It signifies that you've put in the work and now possess the necessary skill or competence.