be able to build

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be able to build" is correct and usable in written English.
It is a form of the modal auxiliary verb "can," and is often used to express an ability to do something or the potential to do something. For example: "With the right tools and materials, I'm sure I'd be able to build a sturdy shed in my backyard."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"They're not going to be able to build anything.

The New Yorker

"You like to be able to build something".

The New York Times

He must be able to build both kinds of knowledge.

Harvard Business Review

We may soon be able to build proteins designed to bind to faulty RNA, fixing mutations.

New Scientist

If we never know, then we're never going to be able to build on anything".

The New York Times - Health

"Once we get a win, we'll be able to build on that momentum," predicted Clarke.

The New York Times - Sports

"We may not be able to build anything, but we can rebuild everything.

The New Yorker

"I just feel really fortunate to be able to build a career as a writer".

Independent

Will Mrs. Bachmann be able to build support around the country?

The New York Times

"We would never be able to build something luxurious enough to draw people," he said.

The New York Times - Magazine

With this way we will not be able to build a state".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be able to build", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being built. Providing specific details enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using incorrect tenses or auxiliary verbs with "be able to build". For example, instead of "was can build", use "was able to build" or "could build".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be able to build" functions as a modal expression indicating the ability or capacity to construct or create something. Ludwig examples showcase its use in various contexts, from physical construction to abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Academia

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

8%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be able to build" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression indicating the ability or capacity to construct or create. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used and correct in various contexts. Its frequent appearance in "News & Media", "Academia", and "Science" demonstrates its applicability across diverse domains. While alternatives like "can build" or "have the capacity to construct" exist, understanding the nuances of each phrase allows for more precise and effective communication. Remember to ensure clarity in your writing by specifying what is being built and avoiding common errors in tense or auxiliary verb usage. "Be able to build" is a valuable tool for expressing potential and capability in both formal and informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have the capacity to construct

Emphasizes the inherent capability or potential to build.

be capable of building

Highlights the competence and skill involved in the act of building.

be equipped to create

Focuses on the resources and tools necessary for building.

possess the skills to erect

Specifically refers to the skills needed for erecting structures.

be in a position to assemble

Suggests having the necessary circumstances to assemble something.

have the means to fabricate

Implies the availability of resources to fabricate or manufacture.

be ready to construct

Emphasizes preparedness and readiness to begin building.

be permitted to build

Highlights the authorization or permission required for building.

be designed to build

Indicates a specific design or intention for building purposes.

be authorized to erect

Focuses on formal authorization to erect structures.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "be able to build" to sound more formal?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "have the capacity to construct" or "be capable of building" for a more professional tone.

What's a simple way to replace "be able to build"?

A simpler alternative is to use "can build". Both phrases express the ability to construct something, but "can build" is more concise.

How does "be able to build" differ from "be going to build"?

"Be able to build" indicates the capability or potential to construct something, while "be going to build" expresses a future intention or plan to construct something. The former focuses on ability, and the latter on intention.

When is it appropriate to use "be able to build" instead of "build"?

Use "be able to build" when you want to emphasize the ability or capacity to perform the action of building. "Build" is more direct and simply states the action itself.