are able for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are able for" is not correct in standard written English.
It is not commonly used and may lead to confusion; instead, "are able to" is the correct form. Example: "They are able to complete the project on time."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

In this report, we are able for the first time to show the carbon footprint of our digital media operations.

The Guardian

So millions of Indonesians are able, for the first time, to see their compatriots demanding Mr Suharto's downfall.

The Economist

Not all of those factories are able, for example, to install the type of Italian bath fixtures that the company uses.

The New York Times - Travel

The 40m Brazilians who clambered out of poverty in the past eight years are able for the first time to scrutinise the society that their taxes finance.

The Economist

They are able, for example, to give loans to these leaders.

Forbes

"Clearly, this does not equate to the normal experience of shift workers who are able, for example, to use bright lights when not sleeping.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

She said she was able for the first time to be emotionally naked with a man.

The New Yorker

Following the election, Cameron was able, for the first time, to run a Conservative-only administration.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Lebanese society was able for a long time to give a semblance of relative economic stability.

Encyclopedia Britannica

We may no longer be able, for example, to grow wheat in Kansas.

The New York Times

They will also be able, for example, to ask to examine the prosecution evidence.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Always use "are able to" instead of "are able for" to express the capability of doing something. For example, "They are able to complete the project".

Common error

Avoid using "for" after "able". The correct construction is "able to". Using "are able for" is considered a grammatical error and can confuse your readers.

Linguistic Context

The construction "are able for" is grammatically incorrect. The correct form is "are able to" followed by an infinitive verb. This phrase typically functions as a verb phrase expressing someone's capacity or ability to perform an action. Ludwig AI confirms that "are able for" is not standard English.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are able for" is grammatically incorrect in standard English. The correct and widely accepted form is "are able to". As highlighted by Ludwig AI, using "are able for" can lead to confusion and should be avoided in both formal and informal writing. Instead, consider using alternatives like "are capable of", or simply "can" to accurately convey the intended meaning of capability or possibility. Remember to always prioritize grammatical accuracy to ensure clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are capable of

Uses "capable of" instead of "able for" to express the ability to do something.

can

A simple modal verb expressing ability or possibility.

are suited to

Indicates appropriateness or fitness for a particular purpose or role, instead of direct ability.

are fit for

Similar to "are suited to", implying the right condition or qualities.

are equipped for

Emphasizes preparedness or having the necessary tools/skills for something.

are competent to

Indicates having the necessary skills or knowledge to perform a task adequately.

are qualified for

Highlights meeting the necessary criteria or requirements for a task or position.

are prepared for

Highlights the state of readiness for an event or task.

are designed for

Focuses on the intended purpose or function something was created for.

are eligible for

Specifies that someone or something meets the conditions to receive something.

FAQs

What is the correct way to say someone has the ability to do something?

The correct way to express someone's ability is to use "are able to", "can", or "are capable of". "Are able for" is grammatically incorrect.

What can I use instead of the incorrect phrase "are able for"?

Instead of "are able for", use phrases like "are able to", "are suited to", or simply the modal verb "can" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "are able to" or "are able for"?

"Are able to" is the correct phrase to use. "Are able for" is not grammatically correct in standard English.

Is "are able for" ever appropriate in formal writing?

No, "are able for" is not appropriate in formal or informal writing. Always use "are able to" or a similar alternative to maintain grammatical accuracy.