be capable of

USAGE SUMMARY

"be capable of" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone or something has the ability to do something. For example: "The new software is capable of performing complex calculations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

"He could be capable of anything".

The New Yorker

We would be capable of playing it.

The Guardian - Music

Is he going to be capable of offering any more?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Can any novel be capable of overwhelming serenity?

The Guardian - Books

I was known to be capable of being outspoken.

The Guardian

I'm not sure that Steve would be capable of murder.

The Guardian

They're not designed to be capable of carrying nuclear weapons.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

I'm capable of medalling.

Independent

I am capable of reason.

The New Yorker

I am capable of forgiving.

The New York Times - Magazine

Mr. Rhoden is capable of poetry.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be capable of" when you want to express a specific ability or potential that something or someone possesses. For example: "This phone is capable of taking high-resolution photos."

Common error

Avoid using "be capable of" in situations where simple action is better conveyed with a direct verb. Instead of saying "He is capable of running fast", it's clearer to say "He can run fast" or "He runs fast".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be capable of" functions as a predicate adjective phrase, modifying a subject by describing its ability or potential. Ludwig AI confirms that it's a common and grammatically sound construction. Examples include "They must also be capable of taking on more debt" and "Aerofex says it will be capable of 72km/h (45mph)".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Science

27%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be capable of" is a grammatically correct and very common construction used to express ability or potential. According to Ludwig AI, its versatility makes it suitable for various contexts, from news and media to scientific writing. When writing, ensure clarity by avoiding overuse in situations where simpler phrasing suffices. Alternatives like "be able to" or "have the ability to" may sometimes be more appropriate. By understanding its nuances and usage patterns, you can effectively incorporate "be capable of" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be able to

Expresses a similar meaning of having the power or skill to do something, but it's more direct.

have the ability to

Highlights the possession of a skill or talent, emphasizing potential.

be equipped to

Suggests having the necessary tools, resources, or training to perform a task.

be competent to

Indicates sufficient skill or knowledge to meet the requirements of a task.

be qualified to

Implies meeting the formal criteria or standards for a specific role or task.

be up to

Suggests being equal to the task or challenge, implying readiness and willingness.

be equal to

Similar to "be up to", indicating the capacity to handle something effectively.

be in a position to

Focuses on having the right circumstances or opportunities to act.

have what it takes to

Emphasizes possessing the necessary qualities, skills, or attributes for success.

be apt to

Suggests a natural inclination or tendency towards a specific action or behavior.

FAQs

How to use "be capable of" in a sentence?

Use "be capable of" to describe someone or something that has the ability or potential to do something. For example, "The software is "capable of handling" large datasets" or "She is "capable of solving" complex problems".

What can I say instead of "be capable of"?

You can use alternatives like "be able to", "have the ability to", or "be equipped to" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "be capable of" or "be able to"?

Both phrases are correct, but "be able to" is generally more direct and common in everyday conversation. "Be capable of" often implies a higher level of skill or potential.

What's the difference between "be capable of" and "be competent in"?

"Be capable of" refers to the general ability or potential to do something, while "be competent in" implies having the necessary skills and knowledge to perform a specific task effectively.