be able to escape

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be able to escape" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the capability or possibility of someone or something successfully getting away from a situation or location. Example: "The prisoners were determined to be able to escape from the high-security facility."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Will she be able to escape?

Independent

"Estrada or his successor won't be able to escape that".

The New York Times

Even St. Nicholas won't be able to escape it.

The New Yorker

Mr. Obama won't be able to escape torture.

The New York Times

He will not be able to escape the blame if this becomes our poll tax".

Independent

"Emerging market multinationals will not be able to escape these trends, given their expanding business footprint.

The Guardian

If it allows them, no country will be able to escape them on its own.

The Guardian - Tech

You don't seem to be able to escape cuddly animals on TV these days.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"If the DShK stays, no one will be able to escape".

The New Yorker

No Giants season-ticket holder will be able to escape the purchase of a license.

The New York Times - Sports

As slick as he is, he might not be able to escape.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "evade", "flee", or "avoid" to add variety to your writing and avoid repetition.

Common error

Avoid using "be able to escape" when a simple "avoid" or "prevent" suffices. "Escape" implies a pre-existing confinement or threat, while "avoid" is more general.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be able to escape" functions as an infinitive phrase, indicating the potential or capability to perform the action of escaping. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

26%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be able to escape" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, as confirmed by Ludwig. It conveys the capability or possibility of evading a situation or confinement. Predominantly found in news, scientific, and general web contexts, it maintains a neutral tone suitable for diverse writing scenarios. When employing this phrase, ensure the context clearly defines what is being escaped from, and consider synonyms to enrich your writing. Remember, "escape" suggests a pre-existing threat, making it distinct from simple avoidance. Ludwig's examples underscore its versatility in various communicative purposes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

manage to evade

Focuses on the act of avoiding or dodging something, often with skill or cunning.

succeed in fleeing

Emphasizes the successful act of running away from a dangerous or undesirable situation.

have the capacity to break free

Highlights the inherent ability or potential to liberate oneself.

be in a position to get away

Focuses on the circumstances that allow for escape.

find a way out

Highlights the act of discovering or creating a path to freedom.

be capable of avoiding

Stresses the ability to prevent something from happening or encountering it.

have the means to avert

Focuses on possessing the necessary resources or strategies to prevent a negative outcome.

be permitted to leave

Highlights the permission being granted for one to get away or leave.

prove oneself elusive

Emphasizes the act of being difficult to catch, find or describe.

retain power to depart

Stresses on keeping the right to leave or withdraw from the current position.

FAQs

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

You can use "be able to escape" to describe someone or something's capability of getting free from a dangerous situation, confinement, or undesirable circumstance. For example: "The prisoner hoped to "be able to escape" from the high-security prison."

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

Alternatives include "manage to evade", "succeed in fleeing", or "have the capacity to break free", depending on the context.

Is it better to use "escape" or "be able to escape"?

"Escape" is a direct verb, while "be able to escape" expresses the capability or possibility of escaping. Use "escape" when describing the action itself and "be able to escape" when emphasizing the ability or potential to do so.

Which is more formal, "be able to escape" or "get away"?

"Be able to escape" is generally more formal than "get away". "Get away" is more colloquial and suitable for informal contexts, while "be able to escape" is appropriate for neutral or formal writing.