any capable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "any capable" is not correct and may be confusing in written English.
It could be used in contexts where you want to refer to individuals or entities that possess the ability to do something, but it typically requires additional context or modification for clarity. Example: "We are looking for any capable individuals who can assist with the project."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

I suppose any capable analyst could explain why.

The New York Times - Magazine

Do the Knicks have any capable rhymers on their roster?

The New York Times - Sports

He could be happily married to any capable woman: that was a comforting thought in their marriage.

The New Yorker

To believe that this political party is devoid of any capable leaders outside the Nehru-Gandhi dynasty defies common logic.

The New York Times

Glover was also set to emphasise the need for affordability because "cost must not deter any capable student from pursuing a university education".

The Guardian

As any capable contracting person knows, this enters the realms of guesswork and slight changes in assumptions can lead to different outcomes for contracts that may be for only three or four years, let alone 13.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

We don't have to think of them as any less capable in that realm any more than we have to think of them as less capable in any other realm".

The New York Times

The 4G goodness will work on any 4G capable handsets from Sprint, as well as any 4G Clearwire USB modems you may have sitting in your desk drawer.

TechCrunch

Any fish capable of swimming away have already done so.

The New York Times

It's a myth that men are any less capable of being a full-time parent.

The Guardian

Could a child reared in a kidnap bunker be any more capable of perfect dramatic timing?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "any capable", ensure the context clarifies what specific ability or skill is being referred to. For clarity, consider using "any capable [noun]" (e.g., "any capable analyst") rather than "any capable" alone.

Common error

Avoid using "any capable" without specifying the area of capability. This can lead to ambiguity. Be specific: instead of "any capable person", use "any capable leader" or "any capable programmer".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "any capable" typically functions as a modifier preceding a noun, indicating a general ability or potential. Ludwig provides examples where it modifies nouns like 'analyst', 'leaders', and 'student', specifying individuals or entities that possess a certain ability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "any capable" aims to denote a general capacity or ability but lacks clarity when used in isolation. As Ludwig AI underlines, it's better employed as a modifier, directly followed by a noun to specify the entity and their attribute e.g., "any capable leader" or "any capable analyst". Though commonly found across diverse sources, ensuring contextual clarity is vital. While it is not incorrect, according to Ludwig, it is preferable to specify of whom or of what are we talking about.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

any competent

Replaces "capable" with a synonym that emphasizes sufficient skill or knowledge.

any qualified

Suggests meeting the necessary standards or requirements.

any skilled

Highlights proficiency and expertise in a particular area.

any proficient

Implies a high degree of competence and skill.

any adept

Indicates skillfulness and quickness in performance.

any masterful

Suggests exceptional skill and control.

any talented

Emphasizes natural aptitude and skill.

any gifted

Similar to talented, but implies an innate ability.

any accomplished

Highlights a proven track record of success and expertise.

any experienced

Focuses on knowledge and skill gained through practical experience.

FAQs

How can I use "any capable" in a sentence?

While grammatically acceptable, "any capable" should be followed by a noun to specify the object/subject of the capability. For example, "any capable analyst".

What are some alternatives to "any capable"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "any competent", "any qualified", or "any skilled".

Is it better to say "any capable person" or "any competent person"?

Both are acceptable, but "any competent person" might be preferred because the word competent implies ability and suitability for a task.

When should I use "any capable" over other similar phrases?

Use "any capable" when you want to emphasize the general ability to perform a task, but ensure that you specify what they are capable of. Alternatives like "any skilled" or "any qualified" might be more appropriate when specific skills or qualifications are needed.