capable of directing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "capable of directing" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone or something that has the ability or skill to lead or manage a process, project, or group. Example: "The new manager is capable of directing the team towards achieving our goals efficiently."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Although the gametophyte generation in vascular plants is small and has limited physiological capabilities, its cells must convey genes capable of directing the sporophytic developmental pattern, because the pattern is transmitted through the gametes to the zygote.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Left to the mercy of the markets we are arguably now less capable of directing our affairs than we were.

The Guardian - Opinion

The satellite has a unique antenna design capable of directing traffic to the ground stations that can handle traffic most efficiently.

The New York Times

Nonetheless, they are capable of directing protein synthesis, and, like chromosomal DNA, they are reproduced and passed on to the bacterium's progeny.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Overseas, however, he remains capable of directing the agenda, placing climate change firmly at the centre of this weekend's G20 negotiations.

The Guardian

But as Nadal's memoir makes clear, Toni's bullying was part of a grand strategy for turning his nephew into a tennis machine, capable of directing every possible resource to the task of winning.

The Guardian - Books

That's not to say Ridley Scott isn't capable of directing Crowe in two roles of what, if Grazer is to be believed, will be a far more linear story.

The Guardian - Film

What the last Syrian personnel carrier left behind when it rumbled across the border was a political stage more divided and intractable than Lebanon's own fragile institutions were capable of directing.

The New Yorker

He succeeded in winning the general election of 1741, but many Whig politicians, and a number of independents, did not consider him capable of directing the war vigorously enough or of surviving another seven years' Parliament.

Encyclopedia Britannica

SEM and EDXS show that MDG1 gels are capable of directing the formation of hydroxapatite.

Biomaterials

The C-terminal portion of MDG1 contains a heptapeptide (MLPHHGA) capable of directing the mineralization process.

Biomaterials

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "capable of directing", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being directed. For example, "capable of directing resources", or "capable of directing a team".

Common error

Avoid using "capable of directing" when simpler alternatives like "able to guide" or "able to manage" would suffice. Overusing complex phrases can make your writing sound unnecessarily convoluted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "capable of directing" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate the ability or competence to guide, control, or manage something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It can also sometimes function as an attribute, as demonstrated in the example, "MDG1 gels are capable of directing the formation of hydroxapatite."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

66%

News & Media

25%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "capable of directing" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that describes the ability to guide, control, or manage something. Ludwig AI confirms its accuracy. Its usage is common in scientific, news, and encyclopedia contexts. While versatile, it is important to use it judiciously, ensuring the context clearly specifies what is being directed, and avoiding overuse in contexts where simpler alternatives would suffice. The phrase maintains a generally neutral to formal tone, making it appropriate for professional and academic communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

able to guide

Focuses more on guidance than direct control.

competent to manage

Emphasizes competence in a management role.

qualified to lead

Highlights qualifications for a leadership position.

skilled at controlling

Highlights expertise in exerting control.

proficient in guiding

Emphasizes proficiency in a guiding role.

adept at steering

Implies skillful maneuvering or guidance.

empowered to oversee

Highlights authority and responsibility in oversight.

authorized to command

Emphasizes the authority to give commands.

fit to govern

Focuses on suitability for governing.

in a position to orchestrate

Implies a strategic and coordinated approach to directing.

FAQs

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

Use "capable of directing" to describe someone or something that has the ability to guide, control, or manage something effectively. For example, "She is "capable of directing" the project team".

What are some alternatives to "capable of directing"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "able to guide", "competent to manage", or "qualified to lead".

Is there a difference between "capable of directing" and "capable of influencing"?

"Capable of directing" implies a more direct and authoritative role in guiding something, while "capable of influencing" suggests a more subtle and persuasive approach. Directing involves control and management, whereas influencing involves persuasion and indirect guidance. So the difference between "capable of directing" and "capable of influencing" comes down to direct control versus subtle persuasion.

When is it appropriate to use "capable of directing" in formal writing?

It is appropriate in formal writing when describing someone's ability to manage, lead, or control resources, projects, or teams. It conveys competence and authority in a professional or academic setting.