bolster the ability

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bolster the ability" is correctly formed and is commonly used in written English.
It is used to refer to improving or enhancing one's capability or capacity to do something. Example sentence: Taking swimming lessons was an effective way to bolster the ability of the children to stay afloat in the water.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

India should bolster the ability of the Afghan air force to more ably operate its current fleet of 50 helicopters.

The New York Times

Among other things, they said, it is difficult to convey a sense of urgency about the Clinton Administration's request for $18 billion to bolster the ability of the International Monetary Fund to deal with any future crises.

The New York Times

It will save lives in poor countries, reduce violent conflict and the appeal of radicalism, and bolster the ability of states to deal with threats before they cause real harm.The dangers of inadequate preventive action are powerfully illustrated by the HIV/AIDS epidemic.

The Economist

The summit is due to adopt an ambitious new plan that would allow NATO to deploy 30 battalions, 30 squadrons of planes and 30 ships within 30 days — a resource that could considerably bolster the ability of the United States to respond to crises.

The Washington Post

As cybercrime escalates and protection and preparedness become increasingly important for every organization, it's ultimately working together that will bolster the ability to combat mounting threats.

Forbes

The initiative aimed to bolster the ability of juvenile justice agencies to address unmet client needs related to substance use while enhancing inter-organizational relationships between juvenile justice and local behavioral health partners.

Health & Justice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

To try to bolster the abilities of the Ukrainian regular forces and reduce Kiev's reliance on these quasilegal paramilitaries, the United States Army is training the Ukrainian national guard.

The New York Times

Dr. Wolde-Georgis's focus is bolstering the ability of African nations to anticipate and withstand drought and other climate shocks.

The New York Times - Science

Researchers at Stanford University found that the main active component in royal jelly, a protein called royalactin, activates a network of genes that bolsters the ability of stem cells to renew themselves.

The Guardian

Critics say Mr. Lee and the National Intelligence Service actually need each other, with the agency's scandal bolstering the ability of progressive politicians like Mr. Lee to stoke antigovernment sentiments while the agency uses cases like Mr. Lee's to defend itself from charges of meddling in domestic politics.

The New York Times

Since their election in 2013, both New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio and the new progressive majority on the council have made bolstering the ability of low-wage workers to care for and support their families a hallmark of their policies.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about improving a specific skill, consider using "bolster the ability" to emphasize a deliberate and strategic enhancement of that skill.

Common error

While "bolster the ability" is a grammatically correct phrase, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "improve" or "strengthen" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bolster the ability" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe actions taken to enhance or strengthen a particular skill, capacity, or competence. This is supported by the Ludwig examples, where it appears in various contexts such as improving air force operations or combating cyber threats.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

32%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "bolster the ability" is a grammatically sound expression used to denote the enhancement or reinforcement of a particular capacity or skill. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correctly formed and commonly used. Though versatile, it tends to appear more frequently in formal contexts such as news reports, scientific literature, and academic discussions, lending a tone of professionalism and strategic intent. While synonyms like "strengthen" or "enhance" exist, "bolster" specifically implies the addition of support to an existing ability. When choosing this phrase, consider the level of formality appropriate for your audience, and be mindful of potential overuse in casual settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

enhance the capability

Uses "enhance" instead of "bolster", focusing on improvement. "Capability" replaces "ability", implying a more inherent capacity.

strengthen the capacity

Replaces "bolster" with "strengthen", a more direct synonym. "Capacity" is used instead of "ability", suggesting a potential for something.

improve the aptitude

Uses "improve" instead of "bolster", indicating a general betterment. "Aptitude" replaces "ability", emphasizing a natural talent.

amplify the proficiency

Uses "amplify" to suggest increasing the degree of skill. "Proficiency" replaces "ability", emphasizing skillfulness.

reinforce the competence

Highlights the act of making something stronger or more effective. "Competence" replaces "ability", stressing the quality of being adequately qualified.

develop the potential

Shifts the focus to growth and realization. "Potential" replaces "ability", highlighting unrealized capabilities.

cultivate the skill

Suggests a more nurtured and refined development. "Skill" replaces "ability", implying a learned proficiency.

build the expertise

Emphasizes gradual development through knowledge and experience. "Expertise" replaces "ability", highlighting specialized knowledge.

foster the talent

Implies nurturing and encouraging innate qualities. "Talent" replaces "ability", emphasizing a natural gift.

augment the power

Focuses on increasing strength or force. "Power" replaces "ability", suggesting influence or control.

FAQs

How can I use "bolster the ability" in a sentence?

You can use "bolster the ability" to describe actions that improve someone's capacity to do something. For instance, "Additional training will "bolster the ability" of our team to handle complex projects".

What are some synonyms for "bolster the ability"?

Alternatives include "enhance the capability", "strengthen the capacity", or "improve the aptitude", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "bolster the ability" in writing?

"Bolster the ability" is suitable for formal writing, such as academic papers, reports, and business communications. In informal contexts, simpler terms might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "bolster the ability" and "improve the ability"?

While both phrases mean to make something better, "bolster the ability" often implies adding support or reinforcement to an existing capacity, whereas "improve the ability" suggests a general enhancement or betterment.