capable of returning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "capable of returning" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that has the ability to come back or revert to a previous state or location. Example: "The software is capable of returning to its original settings after a reset."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Greer is capable of returning serve on a smorgasbord of ideas thrown at her.

The Guardian - Books

"Am I capable of returning to work?" is a question many women are asking themselves.

The Guardian

He said he felt capable of returning, but X-rays continue to reveal a problem.

The New York Times - Sports

There are countless other talented, dedicated and honourable cricketers more than capable of returning our premier sport to high repute.

The Guardian - Opinion

He was lovable the way a child is lovable, and he was capable of returning love with a childlike purity.

The New Yorker

But he could be 39 at the time, and there is no telling if he would be capable of returning.

The New York Times - Sports

Plenty of jobless people who haven't gone to Vassar are capable of returning shoes to their designers after fashion shoots.

The New York Times

What's sad is that, all sniggering aside, Whedon is just the kind of visionary film-maker who might be capable of returning Terminator to its dystopian best.

The Guardian - Film

Cambridge-based chipmaker CSR, down 1.2p at 489p, gave back $416m to shareholders over last three years, and is capable of returning a further $120m.

The Guardian - Business

• To the Editor: Peter Orszag makes an excellent point about how people on disability insurance typically stay on it permanently, even when they're capable of returning to work.

The New York Times

Up to No. 6 in the rankings, she is perfectly capable of returning to No. 1 this season if she remains healthy.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a process or system, ensure that the conditions for returning are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "capable of returning" when there's no historical data or clear evidence to support the assertion. Base claims on verifiable facts or established probabilities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "capable of returning" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun to indicate its potential or ability to revert to a previous state or condition. Ludwig AI validates this usage through numerous examples in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

35%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "capable of returning" is a grammatically sound and versatile expression used to describe the potential for something to revert or recover. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use across various domains, including news, science, and general knowledge. While its formality is generally neutral, specific contexts can influence its tone. When using the phrase, ensure your claims are supported by evidence and avoid overstating the capabilities without basis. Alternatives like "able to revert" or "has the ability to return" can be used for stylistic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can revert

A shorter, more direct way of saying "capable of returning", focusing on the act of reversion.

has the ability to return

Emphasizes the possession of an ability rather than a state of being.

able to revert

Focuses on the ability to go back to a previous condition, emphasizing reversibility.

competent in coming back

Highlights competence and skill in the act of returning.

equipped to return

Highlights the preparedness or necessary tools/qualifications for returning.

in a position to come back

Focuses on the situation or circumstances that allow a return.

prepared to return

Emphasizes the readiness and anticipation of a return.

able to bounce back

Implies resilience and a quick recovery or return from a setback.

eligible to return

Focuses on meeting the requirements or qualifications to be allowed to return.

has what it takes to return

Emphasizes possessing the necessary qualities or attributes for a successful return.

FAQs

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

You can use "capable of returning" to describe something or someone that has the ability to come back to a previous state, condition, or location. For example, "The athlete is "capable of returning" to his peak performance after rehabilitation".

What can I say instead of "capable of returning"?

You can use alternatives like "able to revert", "competent in coming back", or "has the ability to return depending on the context.

Which is correct, "capable of returning" or "able to return"?

Both "capable of returning" and "able to return" are correct and often interchangeable. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "capable of returning" and "likely to return"?

"Capable of returning" indicates the potential or ability to return, while "likely to return" suggests a higher probability or expectation of returning. The former focuses on capability, the latter on probability.