be able to compromise

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be able to compromise" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the ability to reach an agreement or find a middle ground in a disagreement or negotiation. Example: "In any successful partnership, both parties must be able to compromise to ensure a harmonious relationship."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

In that case, he added, the Pentagon might be able to compromise and find more savings.

The Washington Post

"Congress used to be able to compromise and come together to make decisions after a period of discussion".

The New York Times

"If somebody could automate this process, they would be able to compromise this information in a range of ways.

The Guardian - Tech

While many people in Nepal were relieved that the political process was not derailed, some were skeptical about whether and when politicians would finally be able to compromise.

The New York Times

"The problem with Newt is he won't be able to compromise".' Mr. Romney's campaign said their candidate was not avoiding Mr. Gingrich and a potential ham house showdown.

The New York Times

"In a great democracy, it's important for people to hold fast to principles, but at the same time to understand where they might be able to compromise," he said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

"It's a very positive sign that they were able to compromise instead of litigate.

The New York Times

In Schneider Electric's case, hackers were able to compromise an SIS workstation.

MIT Technology Review

GAZETTE: Are you saying that you would define government as "working" if the parties are able to compromise?

Harvard University

They were able to compromise Firefox, Safari and I.E., but couldn't make a dent in Chrome.

The New York Times - Tech

His quarrels with the pope were smoothed over, and both parties were able to compromise without loss of face.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In relationship advice or interpersonal communication guides, emphasize that "be able to compromise" is a key ingredient for maintaining healthy connections and resolving conflicts effectively.

Common error

Avoid vague statements about the need to "be able to compromise" without specifying what aspects are being compromised or the potential benefits of doing so. Always provide context to give the statement weight and relevance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be able to compromise" functions as a verb phrase indicating the capacity or ability to reach a mutual agreement or understanding by making concessions. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's grammatically correct. Examples show its use in political, interpersonal, and technical contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

33%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be able to compromise" is a grammatically sound and versatile expression used to convey the capacity for reaching mutual agreements through negotiation and concession. According to Ludwig, its usage is correct and relevant across various domains, including news, science, and interpersonal communications. While generally neutral in tone, its presence in authoritative sources lends it a degree of professionalism. To enhance writing, ensure that the context of the compromise is clearly defined to avoid vagueness. Remember that while being able to compromise is generally positive, there are situations where it is not appropriate. Alternatives like "be capable of compromise" or "be willing to compromise" offer nuanced ways to express similar ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be capable of compromise

Emphasizes the inherent capability rather than the action itself.

have the capacity to compromise

Highlights the potential or ability to reach a compromise.

be in a position to compromise

Focuses on the situational readiness to make concessions.

be open to compromise

Indicates a willingness and receptiveness to finding middle ground.

be willing to negotiate

Stresses the readiness to engage in discussions to reach an agreement.

be prepared to make concessions

Focuses on the readiness to give up something to reach an agreement.

be disposed to compromise

Suggests an inclination or tendency towards finding a compromise.

be adaptable and flexible

Highlights the qualities that enable compromise.

find common ground

Focuses on discovering shared interests or beliefs to facilitate agreement.

reach a consensus

Emphasizes the outcome of successful compromise and agreement.

FAQs

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

Use "be able to compromise" to show the ability to find middle ground during disagreements. For example, "In a successful relationship, both partners must "be able to compromise"".

What's a more formal way to say "be able to compromise"?

More formal alternatives include "be capable of compromise" or "have the capacity to compromise", which emphasize ability and potential.

How does "be able to compromise" differ from "be willing to compromise"?

"Be able to compromise" highlights the skill or capacity to reach an agreement, while "be willing to compromise" emphasizes the readiness and open-mindedness to find middle ground.

Is it always good to "be able to compromise"?

While compromise is valuable, there are situations where it's not appropriate, such as when it involves sacrificing core values or ethical principles. Consider the specific context before deciding to "be prepared to make concessions".