are capable of doing so

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are capable of doing so" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express the ability or potential to perform a specific action or task. Example: "The new software updates ensure that our systems are capable of doing so much more than before."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

He just does not think that his team are capable of doing so.

Independent

Like Rodgers, Postecoglou should strive to get his squad playing intelligent football: Australian players have shown they are capable of doing so.

The Guardian - Sport

Societies that want to create a line between two fields of public activity are capable of doing so; we already do this in many ways.

The Economist

"We are capable of doing so much now, I think there are occasions where we haven't really learnt the laws of cause and effect," he says.

Independent

Q: How is that any different to now? "What we are not prepared to accept is people not taking on jobs when they are capable of doing so".

The Guardian

In 2003 he told the Senate banking committee: "Derivatives have been an extraordinarily useful vehicle to transfer risk from those who shouldn't be taking it to those who are willing to and are capable of doing so".

The Guardian - Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

"He's capable of doing so much better".

The New York Times

And it did this before the parent team, Red Bull, was capable of doing so.

The New York Times - Sports

He is perhaps the only artist who is capable of doing so.

The New York Times - Arts

"I found that I was capable of doing so much more than I ever imagined," she said.

The New York Times

"Just about every doctor I've ever known tells every patient who is capable of doing so to exercise.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are capable of doing so" to express the inherent ability or potential of someone or something to perform a specific task or action. For example, "The software is capable of processing large amounts of data."

Common error

While "are capable of doing so" is grammatically correct, avoid using it excessively in informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "can" or "are able to" might be more appropriate depending on the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are capable of doing so" serves as a predicate adjective phrase, indicating the ability or potential of a subject to perform an action. This is confirmed by Ludwig AI, highlighting its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

31%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "are capable of doing so" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase to express ability or potential. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. It is suitable for various contexts, especially in news, science, and business, although simpler alternatives might be preferred in informal settings. When using the phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the inherent ability or potential being described. While frequently seen, avoid overuse to maintain clarity and conciseness in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are able to do so

Focuses on the ability to perform the action, similar to the original phrase, but uses "able" instead of "capable".

have the ability to do so

Emphasizes the possession of the ability, adding a slightly more formal tone.

are equipped to do so

Highlights the preparedness or resources available to perform the action.

are in a position to do so

Focuses on the circumstances allowing the action, suggesting a favorable situation.

are competent to do so

Stresses the skill and knowledge required to perform the action effectively.

are qualified to do so

Indicates that someone has met the necessary criteria or requirements.

are up to the task

Implies a readiness and willingness to tackle a specific challenge.

can manage to do so

Suggests the ability to overcome difficulties in performing the action.

are equal to doing so

Focuses on someone being at the level to do something.

possess the capacity to do so

Highlights having enough capacity for that action.

FAQs

How can I use "are capable of doing so" in a sentence?

You can use "are capable of doing so" to indicate that someone or something has the ability or potential to perform a specific action. For example, "Our team "are capable of doing so" much more with the new resources".

What are some alternatives to "are capable of doing so"?

Alternatives include "are able to do so", "have the ability to do so", or "are equipped to do so". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it more formal to say "are capable of doing so" or "are able to do so"?

"Are capable of doing so" is generally considered slightly more formal than "are able to do so". However, both are acceptable in most formal and informal contexts.

When should I use "are capable of doing so" instead of "can"?

Use "are capable of doing so" when you want to emphasize the inherent ability or potential, often in a more formal or technical context. "Can" is a simpler, more general way to express ability. For example, use "are capable" if you need to be specific, e.g. "This device "are capable of doing so" much more than the previous model", otherwise, you can use "can".