be able to prepare

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be able to prepare" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing someone's capability or skill to make or create something, often in a context where preparation is required. Example: "With the right training, you will be able to prepare a comprehensive report on the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

And today the gas went out, so "cook will only be able to prepare sandwiches".

The New York Times - Magazine

If his releases followed a predictable pattern, he reasoned, Clinton's campaign would be able to prepare.

The New Yorker

This makes it a real shame England will not be able to prepare properly, thanks to the mess that is the end of the domestic season.

The Guardian - Sport

"My anxiety is whether these men will be able to prepare a proper defense," he said, and questioned whether they would be given a fair trial in Houston.

The New York Times

We hope that with enough time, most of our great coastal cities and regions will be able to prepare for a five-foot increase.

The New York Times

If the endeavour proves successful, the vehicles of the future may be able to prepare themselves for a left or right turn – choosing the correct speed and positioning – by gauging that their drivers are thinking about making such a turn.

The Guardian - Tech

(Her) It's just lovely to be at home, to be able to eat whenever you feel like it, to be able to prepare things that you just see that morning, that are fresh and exciting.

The New York Times

For example, Donovan will never be able to prepare breakfast, but he should be allowed to help stir a pot in cooking class, even if an aide must move his hand.

The New York Times

When the dictatorship of Miguel Primo de Rivera came to an end, Alfonso made Berenguer prime minister, hoping that he would be able to prepare for a return to constitutional rule.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In a letter to the governing bodies that make up the BOA board, Moynihan said he was going now rather than serving a full term because he wanted his successor to be able to prepare for the Sochi Winter Games and participate fully in the debate about the future of the BOA.

The Guardian - Sport

He concluded that while the corporation's timetable was "unduly rigorous" for the defendants to be able to prepare their case, he saw "no good reason" for adopting one that left a gap between the case preparation and the start of the trial.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be able to prepare", ensure the context clearly defines what is being prepared and why. This adds clarity and prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "be able to prepare" when a more direct verb like "prepare" or "make" is more concise and effective. This improves sentence flow and readability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be able to prepare" functions as a modal verb phrase indicating the ability, capacity, or possibility to perform the action of preparing. Ludwig examples show it used in various contexts to express capability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

41%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be able to prepare" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression signifying the capability or possibility to prepare something. According to Ludwig, it is commonly found in news, scientific, and formal business contexts. Alternative phrases include "be capable of preparing" or "be equipped to prepare". It's crucial to use it judiciously, avoiding overuse when simpler verbs suffice. The phrase is versatile and suitable for various levels of formality, making it a valuable tool in effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be capable of preparing

Replaces "able" with "capable", emphasizing inherent ability.

be competent to prepare

Emphasizes possessing the necessary skills and knowledge.

have the ability to prepare

Rephrases the ability as a possession, highlighting inherent capacity.

be skilled at preparing

Highlights specific expertise in the act of preparing.

be equipped to prepare

Emphasizes having the necessary tools or resources.

be qualified to prepare

Focuses on meeting the necessary criteria or requirements.

be in a position to prepare

Focuses on the circumstances that allow preparation.

have the means to prepare

Focuses on having the resources or opportunity.

be ready to prepare

Highlights the state of readiness for preparation.

be fit to prepare

Stresses the suitability or appropriateness for preparation.

FAQs

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

You can use "be able to prepare" to indicate capability or readiness. For example, "With the right training, you will "be able to prepare" a comprehensive report.".

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

Alternatives include phrases like "be capable of preparing", "have the ability to prepare", or "be equipped to prepare", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "be able to prepare" or simply "prepare"?

It depends on the context. "Prepare" is more direct and concise, while "be able to prepare" emphasizes the capacity or ability to do so. Choose the option that best fits the intended meaning.

What does "be in a position to prepare" mean, and how does it differ from "be able to prepare"?

"Be in a position to prepare" suggests that circumstances or conditions allow for preparation, whereas ""be able to prepare"" focuses more on inherent capability or skill.