are able to shine

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are able to shine" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express someone's capability or potential to excel or stand out in a particular context. Example: "With hard work and dedication, students are able to shine in their academic pursuits."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

"Usually you are able to shine and create moments.

The Guardian - Film

There are many passages in The Bricks That Built the Houses where Tempest's extraordinary talents are able to shine through.

The Guardian - Books

You need to work with employers to make sure that the right people are put in the right jobs, and that when they do, they are able to shine.

The Guardian - Opinion

In addition, we are able to shine brighter in the world.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

"I just want to be able to shine and inspire people.

Independent

"Information gathered strongly suggests that he may be able to shine some light into this investigation".

The New York Times

"Ofsted must be able to shine a spotlight wherever it wants to.

The Guardian

"And that wolf is out there lurking, and I'm able to shine a light on it briefly.

The New York Times - Books

The Conservative Book Club, she said, "has been able to shine a spotlight on the books that are in the club".

The New York Times - Books

In the past, only the big names were able to shine after they left their news organisation.

The Guardian

"I'm so happy, I'm thrilled that we were able to shine a light on Alzheimer's disease," Moore said.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are able to shine" when you want to emphasize not just the ability, but also the opportunity or circumstances that allow someone or something to excel. For example, "With the new resources, students are able to shine."

Common error

Avoid using "are able to shine" in situations where simpler verbs like "can" or "excel" would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound unnecessarily verbose. For example, instead of "They are able to shine in the classroom", consider "They excel in the classroom".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are able to shine" functions as a verbal phrase expressing the ability or potential to excel or stand out. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It highlights not just the inherent capacity but also the enabling conditions that allow someone or something to excel.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "are able to shine" is a grammatically correct verbal phrase used to express the capacity and opportunity for excelling. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and its usage spans across various contexts, with a notable presence in News & Media. While versatile, it's important to use this phrase judiciously, avoiding overuse in simpler contexts where alternatives like "can excel" would be more appropriate. The phrase carries a neutral register, suitable for both professional and general communication, emphasizing the potential for success with a touch of optimism.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can excel

Emphasizes the potential for superior performance.

have the opportunity to shine

Highlights the presence of a favorable chance for success.

can distinguish themselves

Focuses on setting oneself apart from others.

can demonstrate their abilities

Emphasizes showcasing skills and talents.

have the potential to excel

Highlights the inherent possibility of achieving excellence.

are capable of brilliance

Focuses on the capacity for exceptional performance.

can stand out

Highlights the ability to be noticeable and different.

can showcase their talents

Emphasizes the act of displaying one's skills effectively.

have what it takes to succeed

Focuses on possessing the necessary qualities for accomplishment.

can reach their full potential

Emphasizes the ability to maximize one's capabilities.

FAQs

How can I use "are able to shine" in a sentence?

Use "are able to shine" to express someone's capability or potential to excel, as in, "With proper guidance, the students "are able to shine" in their studies".

What can I say instead of "are able to shine"?

You can use alternatives like "can excel", "have the opportunity to shine", or "can distinguish themselves" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "are able to shine" or "can shine"?

Both "are able to shine" and "can shine" are grammatically correct. "Are able to shine" emphasizes the enabling circumstances, while "can shine" simply indicates the ability.

What's the difference between "are able to shine" and "have the opportunity to shine"?

"Are able to shine" focuses on the inherent capability plus the enabling circumstances, while "have the opportunity to shine" emphasizes the favorable chance or situation allowing them to excel.