be able to use

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be able to use" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing the capability or capacity to utilize something, such as a tool, resource, or skill. Example: "To succeed in this course, you must be able to use the software effectively."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

"Suez will be able to use it".

The New York Times

We should be able to use it.

The Guardian - Arts

Any voter should be able to use a paper ballot.

The New York Times

"But everyone will be able to use it".

The New York Times

Now we'll be able to use the existing phone line".

The New York Times

Jobcentre staff want claimants to be able to use smartphones.

The Guardian

"People will be able to use their time better.

The Guardian - Business

Don't expect to be able to use your travel insurance.

The Guardian - Money

Yeah, we're gonna be able to use it some day.

The Guardian - Film

They won't be able to use Lebanon against Israel".

The New York Times

We will be able to use some very Hermès materials".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be able to use", ensure the context clearly defines what "it" refers to. Ambiguity can confuse the reader. For example, instead of saying "Suez will be able to use it", specify "Suez will be able to use the gas transport infrastructure".

Common error

Avoid using "be able to used". The correct form is "be able to use", where "use" remains in its base form following the modal verb "be able to".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be able to use" functions as a modal verb phrase, expressing the ability, capacity, or permission to utilize something. Ludwig AI confirms that this is a grammatically correct and frequently used construction, as demonstrated by numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be able to use" is a grammatically sound and versatile construction used to express the capacity, permission, or opportunity to utilize something. As Ludwig AI points out, it is widely employed across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While "be able to use" is generally neutral in tone, varying your phrasing with alternatives such as "have the capacity to use" or "be capable of using" can enhance the clarity and style of your writing. Remember to ensure the context clearly defines what "it" refers to, and avoid incorrect forms like "be able to used".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have the capacity to use

Emphasizes the inherent ability or potential to use something.

be capable of using

Highlights the skill or competence to use something effectively.

have the opportunity to use

Focuses on the availability or chance to use something.

be permitted to use

Indicates that permission or authorization has been granted to use something.

be in a position to use

Suggests that circumstances allow for the use of something.

manage to use

Implies a successful effort to use something, often despite challenges.

get to use

Expresses the chance or privilege of using something.

be entitled to use

Indicates a right or claim to use something.

be free to use

Emphasizes the lack of restrictions on using something.

be equipped to use

Highlights the preparedness or resources available to use something.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "be able to use" for formal writing?

In formal contexts, consider alternatives like "have the capacity to use", "be capable of using", or "be in a position to use". These options, instead of "be able to use", convey a more professional tone.

What's the difference between "be able to use" and "can use"?

"Can use" is generally more concise and direct, while "be able to use" can sometimes emphasize the ability or potential to use something. Often, they are interchangeable, but "be able to use" might be preferred for clarity in complex sentences.

When should I use "will be able to use" instead of "can use"?

"Will be able to use" refers to a future ability or possibility, whereas "can use" refers to a present ability or general possibility. For instance, "People "will be able to use" their time better" indicates a future benefit, while "Any voter "can use" a paper ballot" suggests a current option.

Is it ever incorrect to use "be able to use"?

While grammatically correct, "be able to use" can sometimes sound less fluent than shorter alternatives like "can use". Overuse might make your writing sound clunky, so vary your phrasing when possible.