capable of both

USAGE SUMMARY

In written English, "capable of both" is correct and usable.
You can use it to note that something has two possible outcomes or attributes. For example, "This new technology is capable of both high speeds and low energy consumption."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Global powers are capable of both".

The New York Times

Foundations are capable of both.

Harvard Business Review

He said that Moalin was "capable of both humanitarian virtue" and of collaborating with terrorists.

The New Yorker

We know that she is capable of both uniting and leading.

The New York Times

Verdict: The best Android tablet that's capable of both work and play.

The Guardian - Tech

And judges themselves are not only political but also human, capable of both bias and error.

The New York Times

For Mr. Claudel human beings are ambiguous creatures fully capable of both good and evil.

The New York Times

Capable of both seduction and kicking a tourist in the spleen.

The New Yorker

The size of a large refrigerator, it is capable of both subtractive and additive manufacturing.

The Economist

Either way, one learns the delicate balance between violence and nurture by mastering the use of something capable of both.

The New York Times - Magazine

Between the alpha and the omega came Navjot Sidhu capable of both buccaneering assaults on spinners and obdurate, parsimonious accumulation.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "capable of both" to clearly indicate that something or someone has the ability to perform two distinct actions or possess two different qualities. For clarity, follow it with a list of the two capabilities (e.g., "capable of both A and B").

Common error

Avoid using "capable of both" without clearly stating the two abilities or qualities that are being referred to. For example, instead of saying "The device is capable of both operating modes", specify "The device is capable of both automatic and manual operating modes".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "capable of both" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase. It highlights the duality of a subject's abilities or potential. Ludwig examples illustrate its usage in various contexts, affirming its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

36%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "capable of both" is a grammatically sound and versatile phrase used to describe the dual abilities or qualities of a subject. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's prevalent in various contexts, from news and media to scientific literature. To ensure clarity, always specify the two capabilities being referred to. By avoiding common errors and leveraging practical tips, you can effectively incorporate "capable of both" into your writing. Alternatives like "able to do either" offer nuanced ways to express similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

able to do either

Focuses on the ability to perform one of two actions.

equipped for both

Emphasizes the preparedness or resources for two different tasks.

suited for either

Highlights the appropriateness or fitness for two separate purposes.

adaptable to both

Stresses the ability to adjust to two varying conditions.

proficient in either

Implies skill or expertise in two distinct areas.

competent in both

Suggests the necessary abilities to handle two different requirements.

effective in both

Highlights the success or effectiveness in two different situations.

functional in both

Focuses on the practical use or function in two scenarios.

designed for either

Emphasizes the intended purpose or design for two individual uses.

qualified for either

Suggests the necessary qualifications or credentials for two separate roles.

FAQs

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

Use "capable of both" to indicate something or someone is equipped for two distinct actions or qualities. For example, "The new phone is capable of both making calls and browsing the internet".

What are some alternatives to using "capable of both"?

You can use alternatives such as "able to do either", "equipped for both", or "suited for either", depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "capable of both"?

Yes, "capable of both" is grammatically correct. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and it is widely used in formal and informal writing to indicate dual capabilities.

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

"Able to" indicates a general ability, while "capable of both" specifically highlights the ability to perform two distinct actions or possess two different qualities.