are able to do so

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are able to do so" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate someone's capability or permission to perform a specific action. Example: "If you follow the guidelines, you are able to do so without any issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Not that they are able to do so.

The New York Times

"If they are able to do so, it is going to take quite a while.

The New York Times

We will share further news as soon as we are able to do so on Monday".

The New York Times - Arts

If they are able to do so, it will strengthen the hand of the Third Front.

The Guardian - Opinion

Staff wishing to opt out, or choose their own pension provider, are able to do so.

The Guardian

Those who are able to do so may risk being dogmatic.

The New York Times - Books

Some people want to leave their stuff behind, and are able to do so.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

However, the exact mechanisms by which neurons are able to do so, remained unknown.

Nature

They are able to do so because what is being seized is not the site itself, but its address.

Independent

They are able to do so because these records use both compass bearings and astronomical observations to locate a vessel.

The Economist

That means, as it has everywhere else, that people who seldom if ever flew suddenly are able to do so.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are able to do so" when you want to emphasize the capacity, permission, or opportunity to perform a specific action. It adds a degree of formality and precision.

Common error

While grammatically correct, excessive use of "are able to do so" can make your writing sound stilted. Consider using simpler alternatives like "can" or "may" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are able to do so" functions as a verbal phrase expressing capacity, permission, or opportunity. It often appears as part of a clause that explains a reason or condition, as seen in the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

33%

Academia

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are able to do so" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression indicating capability, permission, or opportunity. As confirmed by Ludwig, its function typically involves explaining a reason or condition. While versatile, it tends to be more formal than simpler alternatives like "can". It is found across diverse contexts, especially in News & Media and Scientific writing. When employing this phrase, ensure it aligns with your desired tone and consider varying your phrasing to prevent sounding repetitive.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can do so

A more concise and direct way of expressing the same meaning.

are capable of doing so

Emphasizes inherent ability or competence, rather than explicit permission or opportunity.

have the ability to do so

Highlights the possession of a specific skill or capacity.

are permitted to do so

Focuses specifically on permission or authorization.

are allowed to do so

Similar to "are permitted to do so", but can also imply a lack of prohibition.

are equipped to do so

Highlights the availability of necessary tools or resources.

are free to do so

Emphasizes the absence of restrictions or obligations.

are authorized to do so

Emphasizes formal approval or legal right.

are in a position to do so

Indicates having the necessary circumstances or resources.

are entitled to do so

Highlights a legal or moral right to perform the action.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use "are able to do so" in writing?

The phrase "are able to do so" is appropriate when you want to emphasize capability, permission, or the existence of necessary conditions for performing an action. It often adds a formal tone to the writing.

What are some alternatives to "are able to do so"?

You can use alternatives like "can do that", "are permitted to do so", or "are capable of doing so" depending on the context.

Is "are able to do so" more formal than "can"?

Yes, "are able to do so" is generally more formal than "can". Using "can" is often preferred in informal contexts or when aiming for a more conversational tone.

How can I avoid sounding repetitive when using "are able to do so"?

To avoid repetition, vary your phrasing by using synonyms or rephrasing the sentence. For example, instead of saying "They are able to do so because of their training", you could say "Their training enables them to do that" or "They "have the ability to" do so because of their training".