capable of attacking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "capable of attacking" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that has the ability or potential to launch an attack, whether in a physical, metaphorical, or digital context. Example: "The new software is capable of attacking vulnerabilities in the system, making it essential for cybersecurity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Papers said GCHQ was now capable of "attacking" hundreds of apps, and a "mobile capability map" from June last year stated the agency had found ways of looking at the search patterns, emails and conversations on many commonly used phone services.

The Guardian

Moreover, it is developing antiship ballistic missiles, potentially capable of attacking American aircraft carriers.

The New York Times

But Alberto seems pretty agitated, so he is capable of attacking much earlier".

The New York Times - Sports

There is no other country around us that is capable of attacking us.

The New York Times

The ST-LP injections resulted in strong, cell-mediated immunity, capable of attacking and eliminating abnormal antigen-bearing cells.

Molecular Immunology

Other nations, like Iran, Iraq and North Korea, are actively trying to acquire missiles capable of attacking the United States.

The New York Times

It has military communications and imaging satellites and is reportedly developing ground-based lasers capable of attacking satellites.

The New York Times

The U.S. military has also begun exploring the use of smaller, "useable" nuclear-tipped missiles capable of attacking underground bunkers.

The New Yorker

Washington considers the expenditure a worthwhile nvestment, building a local force capable of attacking Aqap and minimizing direct US involvement.

The Guardian

The success of the passive immunotherapy with monoclonal antibodies or via the allogeneic transplantation show that the immune system is capable of attacking the cancer cells.

Cancer Immunotherapy Immune Suppression and Tumor Growth

Since January, he has shown he is capable of attacking practically anybody: foe or ally, Democrat or Republican, black or white.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing potential threats or vulnerabilities, use "capable of attacking" to clearly communicate the ability to inflict damage or compromise security.

Common error

Avoid using "capable of attacking" in situations where a simpler, less aggressive phrase would suffice. Overusing this phrase can create unnecessary alarm or appear overly dramatic. For example, using "able to criticize" instead of "capable of attacking" someone's ideas.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "capable of attacking" functions as a predicate adjective, modifying a noun or pronoun by describing its ability or potential to initiate an attack. Ludwig provides various examples demonstrating its usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "capable of attacking" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It serves to describe the potential for offensive action, appearing most commonly in news and media, as well as in scientific contexts. While broadly applicable, it's best to avoid overuse in non-technical settings where a simpler phrase might suffice. Consider context and desired tone when choosing this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

able to attack

Emphasizes the ability to perform an attack, similar to the original phrase but using a simpler adjective.

in a position to attack

Highlights the situational readiness for an attack, focusing on the strategic advantage.

with the capacity to attack

Stresses the inherent capacity or potential for offensive action.

has the capability to strike

Uses 'strike' to denote a forceful attack, implying precision or impact.

able to launch an offensive

Focuses on initiating an attack, implying a broader strategic action.

equipped to assault

Highlights the readiness and tools available for a forceful attack.

prepared to engage

Suggests a readiness to confront or battle, implying a more active involvement.

in condition to strike

Emphasizes the physical or operational state required for an attack.

empowered to harm

Focuses on the authorization or power to inflict damage or injury.

liable to aggress

Suggests a tendency or predisposition towards aggressive action.

FAQs

How can I use "capable of attacking" in a sentence?

You can use "capable of attacking" to describe entities or systems that possess the means or potential to initiate an offensive action. For example, "The virus is "capable of attacking" vulnerable computer networks".

What are some alternatives to "capable of attacking"?

Depending on the specific context, you can use alternatives such as "able to attack", "in a position to attack", or "has the capability to strike".

Is it better to say "capable of attacking" or "able to attack"?

"Capable of attacking" and "able to attack" are often interchangeable, but "capable of" might imply a higher level of readiness or inherent ability. The best choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

In what situations is "capable of attacking" most appropriate?

"Capable of attacking" is particularly fitting in discussions about military strategy, cybersecurity, and disease, where describing the potential for offensive action is crucial. You can also use alternatives such as "prone to attacking" or "liable to attack".