am capable of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "am capable of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express one's ability or capacity to perform a certain action or task. Example: "I am capable of completing the project ahead of schedule if given the necessary resources."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I am capable of reason.

The New Yorker

I am capable of forgiving.

The New York Times - Magazine

I am capable of conquering it".

The New York Times

"I know what I am capable of.

The New York Times - Sports

I am capable of everything if I get angry".

The New Yorker

I have to keep doing things I am capable of".

The New York Times - Sports

"I have shown the world what I am capable of.

The Guardian - Sport

George: I am capable of logic and of learning.

The Guardian - Tech

I know I am capable of doing anything.

The New York Times

I did this for me, to prove to myself what I am capable of.

The New York Times - Sports

After which time it will be determined whether or not I am capable of change.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "am capable of", follow it with a verb in its gerund form (e.g., "I am capable of learning quickly.") to clearly indicate the action you are able to perform.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "am capable of" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider using simpler alternatives like "can" or "able to" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "am capable of" functions as an adjective phrase that modifies the subject pronoun "I". It indicates the ability or capacity of the subject to perform a specific action, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "am capable of" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to express one's ability or potential to perform a specific action. As noted by Ludwig, it's suitable for various contexts, though it leans toward a neutral to formal register. While perfectly acceptable, consider using simpler alternatives like "can" or "able to" in informal settings. The phrase sees prominent use in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business contexts. Examples from Ludwig showcase its versatility in conveying self-assurance and competence across diverse scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I have the ability to

Focuses on the inherent ability possessed by the speaker, offering a more direct declaration of skill.

I am able to

A more concise and straightforward alternative, directly stating the speaker's capacity.

I can

The simplest and most informal way to express capability, suitable for everyday conversation.

I am competent to

Suggests a level of skill and qualification, implying professional readiness.

I am equipped to

Emphasizes having the necessary tools or resources to perform a task.

I am equal to

Implies a match in ability or strength, indicating fitness for a challenge.

I am up to

Suggests willingness and energy to tackle something, highlighting readiness.

I am in a position to

Highlights opportunity and readiness, suggesting that circumstances enable action.

I am fit to

Indicates suitability or qualification, emphasizing the right condition for a task.

I am prepared to

Stresses readiness and willingness to undertake a task or challenge.

FAQs

How do I use "am capable of" in a sentence?

Follow "am capable of" with a verb in the gerund form (verb + -ing). For example, "I "am capable of learning" new languages quickly".

What are some alternatives to "am capable of"?

You can use alternatives like "am able to", "can", or "have the ability to" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "I am capable of" or "I can"?

"I can" is generally more direct and informal. "I "am capable of"" is more formal and emphasizes a specific ability or potential.

What does "am capable of" imply about my abilities?

It suggests that you possess the necessary skills, knowledge, or resources to perform a particular task or action. It implies both ability and potential for success.