capable of better things

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "capable of better things" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express that someone or something has the potential to achieve more or to improve beyond their current state. Example: "Despite the setbacks, I believe she is capable of better things and will eventually succeed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

And the actors, most of whom I know are capable of better things, register as so confused and tentative about their characters that I sometimes had the impression they were making up their lines as they went along.

The New York Times

Despite a mordant view of the morals of the world, he did believe then that his class was capable of better things — that, while its practices might be fundamentally mercantile, its ideals elevated those practices into a coherent ethical system, and it could be trusted to regulate itself, because its commitment to its own high standards remained vigorous and genuine.

The New Yorker

(I beg to differ, slightly, and offer as evidence the charming little swagger with which Cook, snapping his fingers, makes a parking meter run out of time in Bedazzled – it's a movement of grace and sexiness, which suggested him capable of better things).

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

A sign of better things to come.

Independent

It slows you down, [to think] of better things".

BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine

The tires were capable of doing better things, that was easy to see.

The New York Times

Ms. Parton is capable of better surprises.

The New York Times

American fans know Altidore is capable of better than he showed at the Stadium of Light.

The Guardian - Sport

We have wealth, resources, skills and caring citizens capable of better than this.

The New York Times

South Koreans are capable of better.

Forbes

We're capable of better.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "capable of better things" to convey a sense of optimism and belief in someone or something's potential for improvement. It implies current shortcomings but also a strong likelihood of future success.

Common error

Avoid using "capable of better things" without a basis for your assertion. Ensure there's a reasonable expectation or evidence to support the belief in improvement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "capable of better things" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe its potential. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English, indicating its grammatical soundness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "capable of better things" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that expresses belief in someone or something's potential for improvement. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is used to convey optimism and hope, often implying current shortcomings alongside a strong likelihood of future success. While primarily found in News & Media contexts, the phrase's neutral register makes it versatile for various settings. Remember to use it judiciously, ensuring there's a reasonable basis for your belief in future improvement. Related phrases such as "able to achieve more" or "has the potential for greater success" can provide alternative ways to express similar sentiments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

able to achieve more

Focuses on the ability to reach a higher level of accomplishment.

has the potential for greater success

Highlights the possibility of future success.

can rise to the occasion

Emphasizes the capacity to perform well in a specific situation.

has untapped potential

Suggests that someone's abilities are not yet fully utilized.

can perform at a higher level

Directly refers to the capability of improved performance.

is destined for greater things

Indicates a preordained or likely future of significant achievements.

shows promise of improvement

Highlights the visible signs of potential betterment.

has the makings of something great

Implies that the necessary qualities for future success are present.

is on track for improvement

Shows progress and positive evolution.

has a capacity for growth

Focuses on the ability to develop and expand one's skills or abilities.

FAQs

How can I use "capable of better things" in a sentence?

You can use "capable of better things" to express that someone or something has the potential to improve or achieve more. For example: "The team is struggling now, but I believe they are "capable of better things" if they work together."

What's a more formal way to say "capable of better things"?

In a more formal context, consider using phrases like "able to achieve more" or "possesses the potential for greater success". These alternatives convey a similar meaning with a more professional tone.

What can I say instead of "capable of better things" to emphasize current shortcomings?

To highlight present inadequacies while still suggesting potential, you could say "has yet to reach its full potential" or "demonstrates unrealized abilities".

Is it appropriate to use "capable of better things" in a negative context?

While generally positive, "capable of better things" can be used in a slightly critical way to express disappointment. For example: "His recent performance has been subpar, especially considering he is "capable of better things"."