be able not to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be able not to" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to express the ability to choose not to do something. For example, "He was able not to take part in the discussion".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Would you be able not to do that?

The New Yorker

Between you and me, I'd quite like to be able not to tick this one.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Both companies are proud to be able not to offer mixed quartets for singing telegrams.

The New Yorker

If I want to cover, I should be able to cover, and if not, I should be able not to.

Independent

They may not be able not to spend their weekends singing team songs in packed, undulating stadiums, as Germans, Mexicans and a few million other people do.

The New York Times

(of course any one who doesn't want will be able not to accept them).

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

"Being able not to do that and still have my turn, it's a good thing.

The New York Times - Sports

"If you're able not to worry too much, that will help you.

The Guardian

I am very happy that I am able not to feel envy.

Huffington Post

I just wasn't able not to come".

Los Angeles Times

Anybody watching will not be able to not be amazed.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be able not to" when you want to specifically emphasize the option of not doing something, rather than simply lacking the ability. It highlights a conscious choice.

Common error

Don't use "be able not to" when simply expressing an inability. If someone cannot do something due to lack of skill or resources, phrases like "can't" or "unable to" are more appropriate. "Be able not to" suggests a capacity to act, coupled with a deliberate decision not to.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be able not to" functions as a modifier, expressing the capacity to choose not to perform an action. As Ludwig AI confirms, this construction emphasizes the availability of an option, indicating a conscious choice to abstain.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be able not to" is a grammatically sound construction that indicates the capacity and choice to abstain from an action. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and utility in emphasizing volition. While not as common as simpler alternatives like "can't" or "unable to", "be able not to" serves a specific purpose in highlighting the option of refraining. It's most frequently found in News & Media, scientific sources and Wiki articles. When using this phrase, ensure that you're accurately conveying the nuance of choice and not simply expressing an inability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be able to refrain from

Highlights the ability to avoid doing something.

have the option to not

Emphasizes the availability of choice in refraining from an action.

have the choice to avoid

Emphasizes the ability to select a course of action that prevents something from happening.

be in a position to decline

Highlights the capacity to refuse or reject an opportunity.

be free to abstain

Highlights the freedom to choose not to participate or engage in something.

be capable of abstaining from

Focuses on the ability to hold oneself back from doing something.

have the discretion to not

Stresses the power of personal judgment in deciding not to do something.

be at liberty not to

Indicates freedom and permission not to do something, emphasizing the lack of obligation.

be entitled not to

Indicates a right or justification for not doing something.

be empowered to decline

Emphasizes that one has been given the power or authority to refuse.

FAQs

How can I use "be able not to" in a sentence?

Use "be able not to" when you want to emphasize the choice of not doing something, implying you possess the capacity to do it but opt out. For example, "He was "able not to" take part in the discussion, even though he had relevant experience".

What's the difference between "be able not to" and "not be able to"?

"Be able not to" stresses the option of refraining, suggesting a deliberate decision. "Not be able to" simply indicates a lack of capacity or opportunity. For example, "I was "able not to" attend the meeting because I chose to prioritize another task" versus "I was "not able to" attend the meeting because of a scheduling conflict".

What are some alternatives to "be able not to"?

Depending on the nuance you want to convey, consider alternatives like "have the option to not", "be able to refrain from", or "have the choice to avoid".

Is "be able not to" considered formal or informal?

"Be able not to" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though it's more common in written or carefully spoken language where the nuance of choice is important. More casual speech may favor simpler constructions like "choose not to".