Used and loved by millions

Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak quote

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

MitStanfordHarvardAustralian Nationa UniversityNanyangOxford

be able to cope

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be able to cope" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing someone's capacity to handle or manage a situation or challenge. Example: "Despite the difficulties she faced, she was determined to be able to cope with the stress of her new job."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Would you be able to cope?

News & Media

Independent

They won't be able to cope.

News & Media

The Economist

You may be able to cope, or adjust the situation.

LL You didn't think you'd be able to cope?

We just won't be able to cope," he told Today.

News & Media

The Guardian

That she wouldn't be able to cope with this information.

After all, our colleagues seem to be able to cope.

"We have to be able to cope with every situation.

News & Media

The New Yorker

Will we be able to cope by 2050?

Congress may not be able to cope with it.

News & Media

The New Yorker

"You 'dim' it to be able to cope better".

News & Media

The New York Times
Show more...

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing strategies for managing stress or difficult situations, use "be able to cope" to emphasize the development or implementation of effective coping mechanisms.

Common error

While "be able to cope" is versatile, avoid overuse in very informal settings. Opt for simpler alternatives like "handle" or "manage" for a more natural tone.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

88%

Authority and reliability

4.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be able to cope" functions as a modal verb phrase expressing the capacity or potential to manage or deal with a difficult situation. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and correctness in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Academia

29%

Science

29%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be able to cope" is a versatile and frequently used phrase that conveys the ability to manage or deal with challenging situations. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media, Academia, and Science contexts, it maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse audiences. When writing, remember to consider simpler alternatives like "handle" or "manage" in informal settings to enhance naturalness. The phrase’s effectiveness lies in its clear communication of resilience and preparedness.

FAQs

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

You can use "be able to cope" when discussing someone's capacity to handle or manage a situation or challenge. For example: "Despite the difficulties, she needs to "be able to cope" with the stress."

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

Alternatives include "manage to handle", "be capable of dealing with", or "be equipped to handle", depending on the context.

Is "be able to cope" formal or informal?

"Be able to cope" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in very informal situations, simpler alternatives like "manage" or "handle" may be preferable.

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

"Be able to cope" implies managing a difficult situation, while "be able to adapt" suggests adjusting to new conditions. Coping focuses on endurance, while adapting focuses on change.

ChatGPT power + Grammarly precisionChatGPT power + Grammarly precision
ChatGPT + Grammarly

Editing plus AI, all in one place.

Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.

Source & Trust

88%

Authority and reliability

4.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: