capable of operating

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'capable of operating' is perfectly correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in any context to indicate that something has the capability to perform a task or operate. For example, "This robot is capable of operating in a range of different environments."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The resulting system is capable of operating without human intervention.

Encyclopedia Britannica

These new buildings are clearly capable of operating as island communities, under their own internal logic.

The Guardian

Those factors made the engine reliable, powerful and capable of operating at high r.p.m.

The New York Times

Indian firms are perfectly capable of operating abroad if a downgrade happens.

The Economist

It is capable of operating in harsh conditions for more than a day.

The Economist

It was a physical device that was capable of operating in the realm of abstract thought.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It should be capable of operating for at least 90 days, until late April 2004, but could prove more durable.

The New York Times

It was unclear whether either the FlexTreme or ReCharge was actually capable of operating with the propulsion systems envisioned.

The New York Times

Capable of operating in midfield or at full back, Colback has gained a new lease of life.

The Guardian - Sport

Today most advanced jet engines employ esoteric metals and ceramics capable of operating under extreme heat and pressure.

Harvard Business Review

As these developments took hold, a second generation of fighters appeared that were capable of operating in the transonic regime.

Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing technical specifications, follow "capable of operating" with specific parameters such as temperature ranges, voltage requirements, or software versions to provide clarity and precision.

Common error

Avoid using "operable" when you mean "capable of operating". "Operable" simply means that something can be operated, while "capable of operating" implies a specific ability or set of conditions under which operation is possible. For instance, say "This device is capable of operating in extreme temperatures" instead of "This device is operable in extreme temperatures" to highlight its specific capability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "capable of operating" functions as a predicate adjective phrase. It modifies a noun or pronoun, describing its ability or capacity to perform a specific action or function. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

7%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "capable of operating" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that describes the ability or potential of something to perform a specific function. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for various contexts, ranging from technical specifications to general descriptions. The phrase is found most often in scientific and news-related sources. When using the phrase, it is important to be specific about the conditions or parameters under which something is "capable of operating" to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "able to function" or "equipped to run" can be used depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

able to function

Replaces "capable" with "able" and "operating" with "function", maintaining similar meaning.

designed to function

Focuses on the intended operational capability as part of the design.

equipped to run

Uses "equipped" to convey capability and "run" as a synonym for operating, implying readiness.

prepared to perform

Highlights the readiness aspect of operating, using "perform" as the action.

competent to use

Highlights the proficiency and capability in using or operating something.

in a condition to work

Expresses the state of being ready to operate, focusing on the condition rather than direct capability.

fit for service

Indicates suitability for operating, especially in a formal or technical context.

ready for action

Emphasizes the immediate availability and capability to operate.

authorized to proceed

Indicates that permission and capability align for operation.

empowered to act

Stresses the ability and authority to operate or take action.

FAQs

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

You can use "capable of operating" to describe something that has the ability or capacity to perform a specific function. For example, "This machine is capable of operating at high speeds" or "The software is capable of operating on multiple platforms".

What are some alternatives to "capable of operating"?

Alternatives include "able to function", "equipped to run", or "designed to function", depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "capable of operating" or "capable to operate"?

"Capable of operating" is the correct phrasing. The preposition "of" is required after "capable" when followed by a gerund (operating).

What's the difference between "capable of operating" and "operable"?

"Capable of operating" implies a specific ability or set of conditions for operation, while "operable" simply means something is in a condition to be operated. "Capable of operating" is more descriptive.