are able to spot

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are able to spot" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing someone's capability to notice or identify something, often in contexts related to observation or detection. Example: "Experienced detectives are able to spot inconsistencies in witness statements that others might overlook."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

"We are able to spot trends.

The New York Times

Detectors around the sphere of heavy water are able to spot the debris.

The New York Times - Science

"When there's more transparency, people are able to spot greater value," Mr. Banbury said.

The New York Times

There is an intellectual plague spreading among us, and only a few heroic souls are able to spot it.

The Guardian - Books

A. Most important, they are highly motivated, close observers who, without training, are able to spot subtle cues about concealed emotions that we call microexpressions.

The New York Times - Health

Now consumers are able to spot inauthentic messaging and tell other consumers if they are unhappy with the way a company behaves.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

Will we be able to spot who originally made what?

The New York Times - Arts

He prides himself on being able to spot a winner.

The New York Times

Some visitors will be able to spot more direct connections.

The Guardian - Arts

He prides himself on being able to spot trouble.

The New York Times

Nobel economists Nordhaus and Tobin were able to spot this early on.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are able to spot" when you want to emphasize the capacity or potential to notice something, often suggesting a learned or developed ability.

Common error

Avoid using "are able to spot" when a simpler verb like "see" or "notice" would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound verbose and less direct.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are able to spot" functions as a verbal phrase expressing ability or capability. It indicates the capacity to identify, notice, or detect something, often implying a developed skill or specific circumstance enabling such detection, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

3%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, “are able to spot” is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that communicates the ability to identify or notice something. According to Ludwig, it is best employed when emphasizing a developed skill or specific enabling circumstance, and it can be used in a variety of contexts, though it is most prevalent in news and media. While acceptable in formal settings, avoid overuse in simpler contexts where alternatives like “see” or “notice” would suffice. The phrase is generally neutral in register, making it suitable for diverse audiences. Furthermore, related phrases like "can identify" or ""are capable of detecting"" can provide nuanced alternatives depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can identify

This is a more concise and direct alternative.

can discern

Implies a more careful or subtle form of identification.

are capable of detecting

Focuses on the inherent ability to find something.

are in a position to notice

Emphasizes the opportunity or circumstances that allow for noticing.

are equipped to identify

Highlights the tools or knowledge that enable identification.

have the skill to recognize

Stresses the expertise required for recognition.

are adept at picking out

Suggests a natural talent or proficiency in selecting something.

manage to distinguish

Highlights effort and successful differentiation.

are successful in finding

Focuses on the positive outcome of a search.

know how to pinpoint

Highlights specific skill to find a particular point.

FAQs

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

You can use "are able to spot" to describe someone's capacity to notice or identify something. For instance, "Experienced analysts "are able to spot" trends in the market early on".

What are some alternatives to "are able to spot"?

Alternatives include "can identify", "can discern", or "are capable of detecting", depending on the context and desired nuance.

When is it appropriate to use "are able to spot" instead of just "see"?

"Are able to spot" is more appropriate when emphasizing the skill or developed ability to notice something that might not be immediately obvious. "See" is more general. For example, experts "are able to spot" subtle differences, whereas anyone can "see" a large object.

What's the difference between "are able to spot" and "being able to spot"?

"Are able to spot" is a direct statement of capability, while "being able to spot" often functions as a gerund phrase, acting as a noun. Example: "Being able to spot errors is a valuable skill" (gerund) vs. "The team members "are able to spot" errors" (direct statement).