be capable of writing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be capable of writing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing someone's ability or skill to write in a particular context or format. Example: "To apply for this position, you must be capable of writing clear and concise reports."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

I never expected someone to be capable of writing such a traumatic and depressing story.

The Guardian

As we're no longer supposed to be capable of authentically altruistic feelings, we're not supposed to be capable of writing about anyone but ourselves.

The New York Times - Books

It also, magnanimously, suggests that they too might be capable of writing a poem in the sky, whatever they did when they came back down to earth.

The Guardian - Books

I may not be capable of writing a decent horror story, but apparently I am capable of pushing someone I love out of a moving vehicle.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Sometime in the next twenty-five two hundredred years, A.I. will be capable of writing its own code, and will do it much faster and better than humans.

The New Yorker

Will I ever be capable of writing a story about any of us?" In that ugly house in Barbados as the trade winds blew, my aunt was telling me that I would.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Because, obviously, that is all women are capable of writing.

The Guardian - Opinion

And American diplomats are capable of writing blunt, vivid, even amusing assessments of world leaders.

The New Yorker

Ginsberg's poetry evolved through many phases of development before he was capable of writing Howl.

The Guardian - Books

I'm ignorant, and I'm capable of writing badly at any time.

The New Yorker

But it doesn't think we're capable of writing, directing, editing, scoring or producing films?

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be capable of writing" to express not just the ability to write, but also the potential to produce writing of a certain quality or complexity. For example, "He needs to be capable of writing detailed technical reports".

Common error

Avoid using "be capable of writing" when a simpler "can write" or "is able to write" suffices. Overusing the phrase can sound pretentious or imply a higher level of skill than is actually present.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be capable of writing" functions as an adjective phrase describing someone's competence or potential in written communication. It is used to indicate not just the basic ability to write, but also the capacity to produce writing of a certain quality or complexity. As Ludwig indicates, it is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Academia

23%

Science

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be capable of writing" is a grammatically correct and usable expression indicating someone's potential and skill in producing written content. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and the examples demonstrate its presence in various reliable sources, including news, academic, and scientific contexts. While it's a useful phrase, it's important to use it judiciously, avoiding overstatement and ensuring it aligns with the intended level of writing proficiency. Consider alternative phrases like "be able to write" or "have the ability to write" to suit the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be able to write

Focuses on the general ability to write, lacking the nuance of capability or potential.

have the ability to write

States the basic ability to write, without specifying the level of skill.

have the capacity to write

Emphasizes the inherent potential or maximum limit of one's writing ability.

possess the skill to write

Highlights the learned expertise or proficiency in writing.

be proficient in writing

Stresses a high degree of competence and skill in written communication.

be skilled at writing

Similar to "proficient", but slightly less formal, emphasizing acquired skill.

be adept at writing

Implies natural talent and quickness in learning to write effectively.

have the talent for writing

Highlights an innate gift or natural inclination towards writing.

be competent in writing

Indicates a satisfactory level of skill and ability to write adequately.

be qualified to write

Suggests having the necessary qualifications or credentials for writing.

FAQs

What does "be capable of writing" mean?

The phrase "be capable of writing" indicates that someone possesses the ability, skill, and potential to produce written work. It suggests more than just basic literacy; it implies a certain level of competence or proficiency.

What are some alternatives to "be capable of writing"?

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

How do I use "be capable of writing" in a sentence?

You can use "be capable of writing" to describe someone's abilities or requirements for a job or task. For example, "A good journalist must be capable of writing clearly and concisely."

Is there a difference between "be capable of writing" and "be able to write"?

While both phrases indicate the ability to write, "be capable of writing" often implies a higher degree of skill or potential. "Be able to write" suggests a basic ability, whereas "be capable of writing" suggests the potential for more complex or nuanced writing.