capable of big things

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "capable of big things" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone or something that has the potential to achieve significant accomplishments or success. Example: "With her talent and determination, she is truly capable of big things in her career."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

"He's a guy capable of big things," Creighton Coach Bret Simon said.

The New York Times - Sports

Maybe we were outfoxed this time last year, but we have a lot more self-belief and we are capable of big things".

Independent

Achieving consistency was more difficult when the country had multiple sides capable of big things.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Part of an effort to expand Hyundai's lineup beyond inexpensive, entry-level cars -- and to put the world on alert that the South Korean company is capable of bigger things -- the new flagship confronts heavy artillery.

The New York Times

When Renzi made the audacious decision to throw Rome's hat in the ring as a contender to host the 2024 Olympic Games, he said it showed Italy was capable of dreaming of big things.

The Guardian

"We have shown the world that although we have plenty of problems, we are capable of achieving big things," Mr. Pérez said.

The New York Times

Instead, we proved that we are still a people capable of doing big things".

The New York Times

"This is a team that's capable of doing big things, winning championships, contending for the national championship," Duhon said.

The New York Times - Sports

Its failure could cement the notion that government isn't capable of doing big things and doing them well.

Huffington Post

As we demonstrated with the joint federal/state $25 billion mortgage servicing settlement, when we work together -- across partisan and geographic lines -- we are still capable of doing big things for the American people".

Huffington Post

"We've had a difficult past here but we're capable of great things, and big government, which the EU certainly is, is no friend of innovation and growth.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "capable of big things", ensure the context clearly indicates the area or field where this potential lies. For example, "She's capable of big things in the field of medicine."

Common error

Avoid using "capable of big things" without supporting evidence or a clear indication of existing skills and resources. Overstating potential can diminish credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "capable of big things" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe someone or something possessing the ability or potential to achieve significant accomplishments. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "capable of big things" is a grammatically sound and generally positive expression used to describe someone or something with the potential for significant achievement. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While its frequency is uncommon, it conveys a strong sense of possibility and is suitable for both formal and informal settings. To maximize its impact, use it in contexts where there's evidence to support the stated potential and avoid overstating claims. Alternatives include "able to achieve great things" and "has the potential for greatness".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

able to achieve great things

Focuses on the ability to turn potential into actual accomplishments.

has the potential for greatness

Highlights the inherent possibility of reaching a state of eminence.

poised for success

Emphasizes readiness and anticipation of a favorable outcome.

destined for accomplishment

Implies a predetermined course towards achieving notable feats.

likely to make a significant impact

Suggests a strong probability of having a considerable effect.

promising great advancements

Focuses on advancements that could be made in the future.

set to accomplish extraordinary feats

Describes preparations to do unusual or remarkable acts.

on track for remarkable achievements

Describes the positive trajectory for successes.

shows promise of distinction

Focuses on potential to set apart from others due to quality.

demonstrates capacity for excellence

Underscores the proven ability to achieve high-quality outcomes.

FAQs

What does it mean to say someone is "capable of big things"?

To say someone is "capable of big things" means they have the potential, skills, or qualities needed to achieve significant accomplishments or success in a particular area.

How can I use the phrase "capable of big things" in a sentence?

You can use "capable of big things" to describe someone's potential. For example: "With her talent and determination, she is "capable of big things" in her career."

What are some alternatives to saying someone is "capable of big things"?

You can use alternatives like "able to achieve great things", "has the potential for greatness", or "poised for success" depending on the context.

Is it better to say someone is "capable of great things" or "capable of big things"?

Both "capable of great things" and "capable of big things" are acceptable. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. "Great things" might imply excellence, while "big things" suggests significant impact or scale.