be able to construct

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be able to construct" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the capability or skill to create or build something, whether it's a physical object, a concept, or a piece of writing. Example: "Students should be able to construct a well-organized essay by the end of the course."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

If you can sequence something properly and you possess the information for describing that organism — whether it's a virus, a dinosaur, or a human being — you will eventually be able to construct an artificial version of it.

The New Yorker

I thought that I might be able to construct one.

The New York Times

But will conservative Christians be able to construct a narrative against Islam in Europe and America?

The Guardian - Opinion

By photographing a surface from multiple vantage points, scientists will be able to construct a topographic map.

The New York Times - Science

Students don't need to parse sentences any more but they do need to be able to construct them properly.

The Guardian

We might then be able to construct an examination system that truly captures and reflects these qualities.

The Guardian

Ancient builders and surveyors needed to be able to construct right angles in the field on demand.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Astonished by the cost of the meal, I returned a second time to see whether I might be able to construct a less expensive, nonsteak meal.

The New York Times

They wondered if he might be able to construct a mathematical model of the formation and growth of bubbles in stout.

The Economist

She said there were two separate legal processes, but the UK had hoped it would be able to construct the talks on a new trade arrangement simultaneously with the talks on disengagement from the EU.

The Guardian

But I am confident that they will be able to construct that future.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be able to construct", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being constructed, whether it's a physical object, an argument, or a plan.

Common error

Avoid using "be able to construct" in overly passive constructions. Instead of "The model can be able to be constructed by the team", opt for "The team can construct the model" for a more direct and impactful sentence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be able to construct" functions as a modal verb phrase indicating the ability or capacity to create or build something. As Ludwig AI states, this phrase indicates capability or skill. Examples from Ludwig show its use in contexts ranging from building physical structures to creating abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

41%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be able to construct" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to express the capability or possibility of creating something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a versatile phrase suitable for various contexts, from scientific research to news reporting. While generally neutral to formal in register, it's important to consider using more direct alternatives like "construct" to avoid passive voice. When using "be able to construct", ensure clarity regarding what is being built. The phrase finds common use across science, news, and encyclopedic resources, making it a widely understood and accepted expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be capable of building

Similar in meaning, but uses "capable" which stresses inherent potential.

have the ability to build

Emphasizes the inherent capability rather than the act of construction.

possess the skill to create

Highlights skill as a key component, focusing on creation rather than assembly.

know how to build

Highlights the knowledge or expertise required for construction.

be in a position to assemble

Focuses on the situational readiness to put something together.

be prepared to formulate

Implies readiness to devise or create a plan or system.

manage to put together

Implies a successful effort in combining elements.

be ready to develop

Focuses on the preparation and intent to bring something into being.

be equipped to fabricate

Highlights the resources or tools available for manufacturing.

have what it takes to erect

Suggests possessing the necessary qualities or resources to raise or build something.

FAQs

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

You can use "be able to construct" to indicate the ability or capability to create or build something. For example, "Engineers must "be able to construct" bridges that withstand strong winds".

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

Alternatives include "have the ability to build", "be capable of building", or "possess the skill to create", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "be able to construct" or simply "construct"?

Using "be able to construct" emphasizes the capability or possibility of constructing something. "Construct" alone indicates the action itself. The best choice depends on whether you want to highlight ability or the act of construction.

What's the difference between "be able to construct" and "know how to build"?

"Be able to construct" implies having the capacity and resources to build something, while "know how to build" focuses specifically on possessing the knowledge or expertise required. While overlapping, "know how to build" emphasizes the know-how aspect more strongly.