capable for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "capable for" is not correct or usable in written English.
Instead, you should use either "capable of" or "capable to." For example, "She was capable of running a mile in under five minutes."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There are a lot of women in this country racing 6.8km, and they've been capable for a while.

The Guardian - Sport

Irene was assessed as capable for work and received a letter telling her that her ESA was being stopped.

The Guardian

The steering could use more feedback, but the Evoque feels eager and capable for a sport utility vehicle.

The New York Times

While Healy is very capable for some purposes, it is not equipped to collect multichannel seismic reflection data.

The New York Times

The handling is surprisingly capable for such a heavy bike, and the 60-inch wheelbase makes it both steady at speed and forgiving over rough pavement.

The New York Times

Hamas wants an end to the sanctions and believes the Arabs are capable for breaking the siege imposed by the world community should they will to do so.

The Guardian - Opinion

In a squad of soldiers, one might carry a miniature drone aircraft capable, for instance, of flying around a city block to look for the enemy.

The New York Times

But those trucks use body-on-frame chassis and solid rear axels, which make them more capable for heavy towing or off-road use.

The New York Times

The new facility at Grimsby's Royal Dock will include a marine and helicopter centre capable for around-the-clock service to offshore farms.

The Guardian - Business

These two speakers are highly capable for different uses.

TechCrunch

Our developed analytical models are capable for bounded saline aquifers.

Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the specific nuance you want to convey. "Capable of" generally indicates an inherent ability, while "able to" highlights a present possibility.

Common error

A frequent error is using "for" instead of "of" after "capable". Remember that "capable" takes the preposition "of" to correctly indicate possession of an ability or quality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "capable for" functions as an adjective phrase followed by a preposition. However, as Ludwig AI points out, this construction is grammatically incorrect. The correct usage is "capable of" or "able to".

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "capable for" appears in various sources, including news and scientific publications, it is considered grammatically incorrect. As Ludwig AI confirms, the correct form is "capable of" or "able to". Therefore, it's advisable to avoid using "capable for" in your writing to maintain grammatical accuracy and clarity. Remember that "capable of" typically indicates an inherent potential, while ""able to"" suggests a current ability. Pay close attention to the preposition that follows "capable" to ensure correct usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capable of

This is the standard and grammatically correct construction to express ability or capacity.

able to

This is a common and versatile alternative, emphasizing the potential or skill to do something.

equipped for

This suggests having the necessary tools, resources, or qualities for a particular task.

suited to

This indicates a good match or appropriateness for a specific purpose or situation.

competent to

This highlights the necessary skills or knowledge for a given task.

qualified for

This suggests that someone possesses the credentials or experience needed for a role or responsibility.

proficient in

This emphasizes a high degree of skill or expertise in a specific area.

fit for

This denotes suitability or readiness for a particular purpose or condition.

prepared for

This suggests readiness or anticipation for something that might happen.

equal to

Implies the ability to handle or manage a certain task or challenge.

FAQs

What is the correct way to use "capable" in a sentence?

The correct construction is "capable of" or "able to". For example, "She is "capable of" great things" or "She is "able to" complete the project on time".

What can I say instead of "capable for"?

Use ""capable of"", ""able to"", or "equipped for" depending on the context.

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

"Capable of" is the grammatically correct form. "Capable for" is considered incorrect in standard English.

What's the difference between "capable of" and "able to"?

While often interchangeable, "capable of" generally implies an inherent potential, while ""able to"" suggests a current ability or opportunity. For example, someone might be "capable of" running a marathon (has the potential), but not currently ""able to"" due to an injury.