are capable of turning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are capable of turning" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's or something's ability to change or influence a situation or outcome. Example: "The new policies are capable of turning the economy around if implemented effectively."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

"However, they also apparently are capable of turning themselves on".

The New York Times - Magazine

Manchester City have great players that are capable of turning the situation upside down.

Independent

Mary holds the brass knobs tight, as if worried that the dogs are capable of turning knobs.

The New Yorker

"We don't know if we are capable of turning this around, but we will give everything against a great team to try and get to the final.

The Guardian - Sport

But at some point, somebody needs to ask whether the United States and Nato are capable of turning things around in a meaningful way.

The Guardian - Opinion

Since Dempsey returned from suspension, he and Martins have dominated the last 10 minutes, giving the impression they are capable of turning it on whenever they choose.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

This government is capable of turning back the clock.

The Guardian

Bairstow is capable of turning Bopara into yesterday's man.

Independent

"But he is capable of turning on his daughter.

The New York Times

"They're capable of turning up the heat and turning it down," he said.

The New York Times

He thinks he is capable of turning things around in a couple of games.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are capable of turning" to emphasize the potential for change or transformation, especially when highlighting the inherent abilities or qualities that enable such change. It's effective in scenarios where the capacity for change is as important as the change itself.

Common error

Avoid using "are capable of turning" in overly passive constructions where the actor is unclear. Ensure the subject performing the turning action is evident to maintain clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are capable of turning" functions as a predicate adjective phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe its inherent ability to effect change or transformation. As Ludwig AI suggests, it highlights a potential or capacity for altering a situation or thing.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

28%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are capable of turning" effectively conveys the potential for transformation or change. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely used. It is important to choose this phrase when you intend to emphasize the inherent abilities or qualities enabling such change, rather than simply stating the ability to change. As evidenced by its frequent usage in News & Media and Scientific contexts, the phrase maintains a generally neutral tone, suitable for a variety of writing styles. Be mindful of avoiding overly passive constructions to maintain clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can convert

Emphasizes the ability to change something from one state to another.

can transform

Focuses on the ability to completely change something into a different form.

can reshape

Emphasizes the ability to alter the form or structure of something.

are able to modify

Focuses on the ability to make partial or limited changes.

have the power to alter

Highlights the strength or authority to make changes.

can revolutionize

Focuses on the ability to make a fundamental and dramatic change.

are equipped to reverse

Highlights the capability to undo or go back on a previous action.

are predisposed to switch

Suggests a natural tendency or inclination to change.

are inclined to flip

Implies a tendency to abruptly change direction or state.

have the facility to swing

Highlights the ease and dexterity involved in making a change.

FAQs

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

This phrase indicates the ability to change something. For example, "These cells "are capable of turning" into any type of tissue" shows their transformative potential.

What's a more formal way to say "are capable of turning"?

In formal contexts, consider alternatives like "possess the capacity to transform" or "exhibit the potential to convert". These options offer a more elevated tone while maintaining a similar meaning.

What's the difference between "are capable of turning" and "can turn"?

"Can turn" simply states the ability to change something. "Are capable of turning" emphasizes the inherent potential and qualities that enable the change, implying a more significant capability.

Is "are capable of turning" interchangeable with "are able to turn"?

While similar, "are able to turn" suggests a current ability or opportunity to act, whereas ""are capable of turning"" highlights an intrinsic potential or inherent capacity, irrespective of immediate circumstances.