capable

USAGE SUMMARY

"capable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is able to do something or is proficient at a skill. For example: "John is a capable writer and has written several books."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

If you are not capable of being able to decipher between lobbying and fact, and if we are incapable of politicians to see both sides of the argument, then that's a fault that we have".

The Guardian

The most likely potential spoilers in American Pharoah's bid for history include Frosted (fourth in the Kentucky Derby) and Materiality (sixth), the second and third favorites at 5-1 and 6-1 respectively, who are superior closers capable of overtaking fading contenders down the stretch.

The Guardian - Sport

Even with all the misgivings, 43% of respondents said they were more likely to "like" David Cameron than Ed Miliband (just 34 % and 36% thought him more capable compared with the Labour leader.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"We continue to look to capable partners like Australia to do their part".

The Guardian

Young people, says Hamm, are capable of 'huge surliness one minute and massive love the next'.

The Guardian - Film

The puffin seems eminently suitable to be our national bird: a dapper little character who is equally at home on sea or land, given to hedonistic feasting when the seasons allow, but also capable of austere self-denial (they spend their winters out in the North Atlantic).

The Guardian - Travel

Book now Click here for alternative dates – July Click here for alternative dates – September Click here for alternative dates – October A good infographic is the picture that's worth 10,000 words, capable of exploding preconceptions or making instant sense of complex trends.

The Guardian

Their testimony was central to the prosecution case that Hill was fully mentally capable and should be put to death for his crimes.

The Guardian

Moore and Alexander cautioned strongly against any plan for a Westminster-controlled referendum run by an English Tory government – that would be political poison in Scotland, a misstep capable of transforming minority support for independence into victory for the SNP.

The Guardian

Lesula is fully capable of getting up there, but apparently, they are quite happy staying down on the ground.

The Guardian

"We know what she's capable of; what she did against Serena in the US Open final was extraordinary," Draper says.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "capable", clearly state what the subject is capable of doing. This provides context and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "capable" without clearly stating what the subject is capable of doing. For example, instead of saying "She is capable", specify "She is capable of handling complex projects."

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "capable" is as an adjective. It modifies a noun or pronoun to describe its inherent ability or potential. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various sentence structures.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "capable" is a versatile adjective indicating ability or potential, deemed grammatically correct by Ludwig AI. It's very common in various contexts, especially in news and media. When using "capable", be sure to specify what the subject is capable of. Alternative phrases such as "able" or "competent" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

able

A more general term for having the power or skill to do something.

competent

Implies a satisfactory level of skill or knowledge.

skilled

Emphasizes developed ability through training or experience.

proficient

Suggests a high degree of skill and expertise.

equal to

Implies that one has the ability to do it. (more idiomatic)

qualified

Indicates that someone has the necessary qualifications.

up to

Implies that one has the talent or resources to face or do something. (more idiomatic)

equipped

Highlights preparedness and having the necessary resources.

adept

Suggests natural skill and quickness.

effectual

Indicates ability to produce a desired effect or result.

FAQs

How to use "capable" in a sentence?

Use "capable" to describe someone or something that has the ability or qualities necessary to do something. For example: "She is "capable" of leading the team".

What can I say instead of "capable"?

You can use alternatives like "able", "competent", or "proficient" depending on the context.

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

"Capable of" is the correct form. For example: "He is "capable of" great things", not "He is capable to great things".

What's the difference between "capable" and "competent"?

"Capable" generally means having the ability or potential to do something, while "competent" suggests having the necessary skill, knowledge, or experience for a task.