be able to challenge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be able to challenge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the capacity or capability to confront or question something, such as an idea, authority, or situation. Example: "Students should be able to challenge the assumptions presented in the curriculum to foster critical thinking."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"They won't be able to challenge the government," he said.

The New York Times

I need you to be able to challenge me.

The New York Times

With a car background, "you have the basic ability to be able to challenge".

The New York Times

Previously, the owners might not be able to challenge the seizures for years.

The New York Times

The citizen must be able to challenge the executive before an independent judiciary.

The Guardian - Opinion

Intel declined to comment on whether it would be able to challenge ARM through these designs.

The Guardian - Tech

But Snowden would then be able to challenge the decision through the courts.

The Guardian

Snowden would be able to challenge the request for his extradition in court in Hong Kong.

The Guardian

These countries will also be able to challenge decisions pertaining to cross-border banking.

The New York Times

The disclosure needs to be fuller if investors are to be able to challenge managers' valuations.

The Economist

All citizens should be able to challenge the narratives held by elites.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be able to challenge" when you want to express the capacity or potential to question, compete with, or dispute something. It implies both the ability and opportunity to do so.

Common error

Avoid creating overly complex sentences when using "be able to challenge". Clear and concise language will make your point more effectively. For instance, instead of "Considering all the factors, it is plausible that the new entrant will be able to challenge the market leader", try "The new entrant should be able to challenge the market leader."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be able to challenge" functions as a verb phrase expressing capability or potential. As supported by Ludwig, it indicates the capacity to question, compete with, or dispute something. The usage varies across different domains and contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

19%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be able to challenge" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to convey the capacity or potential to question, compete with, or dispute something. As affirmed by Ludwig, it is widely used across various contexts, including news, science, and formal communications. While generally neutral in register, clarity and context-specific language are essential for effective usage. Remember that alternatives like "have the capacity to contest" or "be capable of questioning" can provide nuanced variations in meaning. Avoiding overly complex sentences ensures your communication remains clear and impactful. The prevalence of this phrase in reputable sources underscores its reliability and broad applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have the capacity to contest

Emphasizes the inherent ability or power to dispute or argue against something.

be capable of questioning

Highlights the competence or skill to inquire and challenge assumptions.

have what it takes to dispute

Focuses on possessing the necessary qualities or resources to engage in a disagreement.

be in a position to contend

Indicates having the appropriate circumstances or authority to compete or argue.

be equipped to confront

Suggests possessing the necessary tools or preparation to deal with a challenge.

have the power to resist

Stresses the authority or strength to oppose or withstand something.

be authorized to dispute

Highlights having the official permission or right to question or oppose.

be entitled to object

Emphasizes the legal or moral right to express disapproval or opposition.

possess the means to oppose

Indicates having the resources or capabilities to act against something.

be empowered to defy

Focuses on being given the authority or confidence to challenge or resist openly.

FAQs

How can I use "be able to challenge" in a sentence?

You can use "be able to challenge" to indicate the capacity to question, compete with, or dispute something. For example: "The new policy allows citizens to "be able to challenge" government decisions in court."

What are some alternatives to "be able to challenge"?

Alternatives include "have the capacity to contest", "be capable of questioning", or "have what it takes to dispute", depending on the specific context.

Is "be able to challenge" formal or informal?

"Be able to challenge" is generally suitable for neutral to formal contexts. It can be used in news reports, academic papers, or business communications.

What's the difference between "be able to challenge" and "challenge"?

"Challenge" is a direct verb implying the act of questioning or disputing. "Be able to challenge" indicates the capacity or potential to do so. For example, "They challenge the data" versus "They "be able to challenge" the data if they find errors".