being able to use

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "being able to use" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the capability or skill to utilize something effectively. Example: "Being able to use advanced software tools is essential for this job."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"For us, being able to use Sponsored Messages on Facebook has been super effective.

TechCrunch

The problem was actually being able to use it efficiently.

The New York Times

"Being able to use my teammates," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

It's awful not being able to use my right hand.

Independent

Being able to use the new capital efficiently also helps.

The Economist

"And also, the hope and the dream of being able to use guns in self-defence".

The Guardian

Or the open participation you get from more people being able to use the data.

The Guardian

"Adult literacy is more about being able to use information appropriately and act on it".

The New York Times

And most simply liked being able to use both hands while chatting.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

"Suez will be able to use it".

The New York Times

We should be able to use it.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, ensure the context clearly indicates what is being used and why. Providing specific details enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "being able to use" without specifying the object of use. For example, instead of saying "Being able to use is important," specify "Being able to use the software is important."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "being able to use" functions as a gerund phrase, often acting as the subject or part of the subject in a sentence. Ludwig provides numerous examples where it describes a capability or opportunity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

39%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "being able to use" is a versatile gerund phrase indicating the capacity, skill, or opportunity to utilize something. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely applicable. It appears most frequently in News & Media and Science contexts, maintaining a neutral register suitable for diverse writing scenarios. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the object of use and avoiding overgeneralizations. For enhanced formality, consider alternatives like "having the ability to utilize". By following these guidelines, you can effectively incorporate "being able to use" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

having the ability to utilize

Emphasizes the inherent capability or skill to make use of something.

possessing the capacity to employ

Highlights the potential or power to put something into service.

capable of using

Focuses on the inherent competence or skill in using something.

in a position to utilise

Stresses the advantageous circumstances that permit usage.

with the means to operate

Highlights having the required resources or instruments for operation.

the option of using

Focuses on the availability of a choice or alternative to make use of something.

given the opportunity to apply

Emphasizes a presented chance or situation to put something into practice.

permitted to exploit

Highlights the authorization or permission to take advantage of something.

allowed to handle

Focuses on the permission or authority to manage or manipulate something.

empowered to harness

Stresses the delegated power or authority to utilize something effectively.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "being able to use" to sound more formal?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "having the ability to utilize", "possessing the capacity to employ", or "capable of using" to convey a more professional tone.

What's the difference between "being able to use" and "having the ability to use"?

While semantically similar, "being able to use" often implies a present or ongoing capability, while "having the ability to use" may refer to a potential or inherent capacity.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "being able to use"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to start a sentence with "being able to use", especially when using it as a gerund phrase functioning as the subject of the sentence. For example, "Being able to use advanced software is essential for this job."

What are some common situations where "being able to use" is appropriate?

"Being able to use" is appropriate in many situations where discussing skills, access, or opportunities to utilize resources or tools. Examples include describing job requirements, technological advancements, or personal skills.