are definitely capable of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are definitely capable of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express certainty about someone's or something's ability to perform a task or achieve a goal. Example: "The team members are definitely capable of completing the project ahead of schedule."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

To be honest, I'm pulling for them to make the Final Four, and they are definitely capable of making it to San Antonio.

The New York Times

We are definitely capable of that".

BBC

"We know we are definitely capable of beating the Dutch and I know our team believes that.

BBC

"All three guys are definitely capable of having them.

Los Angeles Times

"They are definitely capable of doing harm to others," Fletcher said.

Vice

But if you are holding the remote in one hand, grasping a brew or glass of vino in the other and are having a tough time with the decision to get up and grab a snack from the fridge or not, you are definitely capable of doing some yard work!! Doing seasonal chores like raking the leaves, mowing the lawn or tidying up the lot can be just what your body is looking for in physical activity.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

"They're definitely capable of beating us".

The New York Times - Sports

"We're definitely capable of backing up.

The Guardian - Sport

"We're definitely capable of righting the ship," he said.

The New York Times

It's something I think I'm definitely capable of".

Independent

"And those are two things that he's definitely capable of doing.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are definitely capable of" to express a strong belief in someone's or something's ability to achieve a specific outcome or perform a particular task. This phrase conveys confidence and certainty.

Common error

Avoid using "are definitely capable of" without providing supporting evidence or context. Overusing the phrase without justification can weaken its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are definitely capable of" functions as a predicate adjective, modifying the subject by asserting a strong level of ability or potential. Ludwig examples demonstrate its usage in various contexts, affirming this function. Ludwig AI confirms this is grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

29%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

14%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "are definitely capable of" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express strong confidence in someone or something's ability. As Ludwig AI confirms, it follows standard grammatical rules and is versatile across different contexts. While its register is generally neutral, finding frequent use in news and media, it’s important to use it judiciously, ensuring the assertion is backed by evidence or reasonable expectation. Consider alternatives like "are certainly capable of" or "have the ability to" to fine-tune the nuance of your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are certainly capable of

Replaces "definitely" with "certainly", indicating a strong degree of confidence.

are undoubtedly capable of

Substitutes "definitely" with "undoubtedly", reinforcing the certainty of the capability.

are absolutely capable of

Emphasizes the capability using "absolutely", suggesting no doubt about their ability.

are highly capable of

Replaces "definitely" with "highly", focusing on the extent of their capability.

are well capable of

Uses "well" to modify "capable", implying a sufficient level of ability.

are easily capable of

Indicates that the capability is achieved without significant effort.

are fully capable of

Suggests complete capability without any limitations.

have the ability to

Shifts from a direct assertion of capability to stating possession of the necessary ability.

are equipped to

Focuses on having the necessary resources or qualities to perform the action.

are in a position to

Highlights the suitable circumstances or readiness to perform the action.

FAQs

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

You can use "are definitely capable of" to express strong confidence in someone or something's ability. For example, "The team members "are definitely capable of" completing the project ahead of schedule".

What phrases can I use instead of "are definitely capable of"?

Alternatives to "are definitely capable of" include phrases like "are certainly capable of", "are undoubtedly capable of", or "have the ability to" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it more formal to say "are definitely capable of" or "have the ability to"?

"Have the ability to" is generally considered more formal than "are definitely capable of". The latter is suitable for both neutral and informal contexts, while the former is more appropriate for formal or professional settings.

When is it appropriate to use "are definitely capable of"?

Use "are definitely capable of" when you want to express a high degree of certainty that someone or something possesses the necessary skills, resources, or qualities to succeed at a particular task. Make sure you can back up your claim with evidence or a strong rationale.