as it is able

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as it is able" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is done to the extent that it is capable or possible. Example: "The team will contribute to the project as it is able, given the current resources and time constraints."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

China can only do its best as it is able.

The New York Times

Previously it was shown that the fusion of GFP to the C-terminus of the MADS domain protein AP1 does not affect its function, as it is able to complement the ap1 mutant [ 28].

BMC Plant Biology

The larger Grey Squirrel survives cold winters better than its thin cousin, as it is able to store more fat.

Columbia University

The recently developed MASC at VU University in Amsterdam reached most of its initial design goals as it is able to simulate Martian environmental conditions.

EPJ Techniques and Instrumentation

Quantification by 2-DE still presents advantages, not only due to the overall sensitivity of this technique but also because of its high resolution power as it is able to discriminate protein isoforms and proteins with post-translational modifications.

Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology

Acetone was used as drying agent as it is able to separate out the gum from its solute while preserving its main functionality as a hydrophilic binder.

BioMed Research International

Due to its hygroscopic characteristics, Okra gum acts as a good binder as it is able to retain moisture that helps in reducing stickiness to the tablet punches during compression process [ 2].

BioMed Research International

The system proposed is more efficient than existing systems as it is able to achieve efficiencies as high as 53%.

Sustainable Energy Technologies and Assessments

Economically, digital data manipulation is much less expensive as it is able to leverage semiconductor economies of scale.

The Digital Consumer Technology Handbook A Comprehensive Guide to Devices, Standards, Future Directions, and Programmable Logic Solutions

Our method is more flexible in selecting the discriminating features as it is able to control the degree of sparseness.

Computer Vision and Image Understanding

However, as it is able to induce immunity to smallpox, vaccination programs have used the vaccinia virus.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as it is able" to specify the extent to which something can perform a function, particularly when there are limitations or constraints involved.

Common error

Avoid using "as it is able" as a crutch for passive constructions. Instead, focus on active voice to clearly identify the agent performing the action.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as it is able" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause, indicating the extent or limit of an action or capability. Ludwig shows its frequent usage in expressing conditional abilities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

75%

News & Media

15%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as it is able" serves to define the boundaries of an action or capability, often highlighting limitations. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used. Its register is generally neutral, allowing for use in various contexts such as Science, News & Media, and Academia. While there are many alternative phrases, "as it is able" offers a specific nuance of inherent potential within constraints. Keep in mind to be careful not to overuse it in passive constructions, as active voice often provides clarity. The phrase appears frequently in ScienceDirect, PlosOne, BMC Genomics and The New York Times, demonstrating its utility across a range of subjects. With all that being said, the examples and analysis show the versatile and frequent use of "as it is able" in modern English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to the best of its capability

Emphasizes maximum effort and skill within existing limits.

within its capacity

Focuses on the limits and boundaries of what is achievable.

as much as it can

Simple and direct, implying effort toward a limit.

to the extent that it can

Highlights limitations or constraints affecting ability.

insofar as it is capable

Formal and precise, indicating conditional ability.

given its potential

Suggests development and untapped abilities.

according to its means

Relates ability to available resources or methods.

considering its skills

Highlights innate talents or expertise influencing outcomes.

taking into account its abilities

Indicates conscious assessment of ability before action.

depending on its competence

Emphasizes skill level as a crucial factor in achievement.

FAQs

How can I use "as it is able" in a sentence?

You can use "as it is able" to indicate the degree to which something is capable of performing a task or function, especially when there are known limitations. For example: "The software will adapt "as it is able" to changing data inputs."

What are some alternatives to "as it is able"?

Alternatives to "as it is able" include phrases like "to the best of its capability", "within its capacity", or "as much as it can", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "as it is able" formal or informal?

The phrase "as it is able" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in very formal writing, you might consider more precise alternatives such as "insofar as it is capable".

What's the difference between "as it is able" and "to the best of its ability"?

"As it is able" focuses on the inherent capacity or potential, while "to the best of its ability" emphasizes the effort or exertion involved. For example, "The system will process the data "as it is able"," versus, "The team will complete the project "to the best of its ability"."