capable of playing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "capable of playing" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone or something that has the ability or skill to perform a particular action, in this case, playing. Example: "The new software is capable of playing various audio formats without any issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Technology

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We're capable of playing better".

The New York Times - Sports

We all feel capable of playing.

The New York Times

All are capable of playing man coverage.

The New York Times

"We're capable of playing some good stuff".

Independent

We're capable of playing with this team".

The New York Times - Sports

I'm capable of playing really well.

The New York Times - Sports

We're capable of playing in the present.

The New York Times - Sports

We would be capable of playing it.

The Guardian - Music

"He is capable of playing solid two-way hockey"...

The New York Times - Sports

"The scary thing is, he's capable of playing even better".

The New York Times - Sports

"We're playing the way we're capable of playing.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "capable of playing", ensure that the context clearly defines what "playing" refers to. For example, specify "capable of playing the piano" or "capable of playing a strategic role".

Common error

Avoid using "capable of playing" without a specific object or context. Saying "He is capable of playing" is vague. Instead, specify what he is capable of playing, such as "He is capable of playing multiple instruments".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "capable of playing" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe its ability or potential to engage in the act of playing. Ludwig shows its usage across diverse contexts, indicating its broad applicability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Sports

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "capable of playing" is a versatile phrase used to denote the ability or potential to perform a specific action. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used across diverse contexts such as news, sports, and technology. To ensure clarity, specify the object of "playing". Alternatives include "able to perform" or "competent at playing", each offering subtle differences in emphasis. By following these guidelines, you can effectively use "capable of playing" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

able to perform

Replaces "capable" with "able" and "playing" with "perform", focusing on the action itself.

competent at playing

Substitutes "capable" with "competent", emphasizing the skill level involved in the action.

proficient in playing

Similar to "competent at playing", but highlights expertise in the specific activity.

skilled at playing

Focuses on the possession of a skill related to the act of playing.

has the ability to play

Breaks down "capable" into "has the ability", making the phrase slightly more verbose.

equipped to play

Implies having the necessary tools or resources to engage in the activity.

prepared to play

Focuses on readiness and anticipation of playing, rather than inherent capability.

in a position to play

Highlights the circumstances allowing someone to play, rather than their innate ability.

fit to play

Implies physical readiness or suitability for playing, often in a sports context.

eligible to play

Focuses on meeting the requirements or qualifications to participate in playing.

FAQs

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

You can use "capable of playing" to describe someone or something that possesses the ability or skill to perform a specific action. For example, "The new software is "capable of playing" various audio formats" or "He is "capable of playing" multiple instruments".

What are some alternatives to "capable of playing"?

Alternatives include "able to perform", "competent at playing", or "proficient in playing" depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "capable to play" instead of "capable of playing"?

No, the correct phrasing is "capable of playing". The preposition "of" is required after "capable" when followed by a gerund (a verb acting as a noun). "Capable to play" is grammatically incorrect.

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

While both phrases convey the ability to perform an action, "capable of playing" often implies a higher degree of skill or inherent potential, whereas "able to play" simply indicates the presence of the ability. The nuance depends on the context.