capable servant

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "capable servant" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is skilled and effective in their role, particularly in a service-oriented context. Example: "The organization is fortunate to have a capable servant who consistently goes above and beyond to meet the needs of the clients."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

He distinguished himself at the Battle of Falkirk and subsequently, as a capable servant of the crown under King Edward I.

Wikipedia

Also the king was eager to reward his capable servant; in 1341 he was given the prebend of Leighton Manor (Lincoln), by 1344 he also held that of Netheravon (Salisbury), and by 1345 that of Putston (Hereford).

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

In the fall of 2011, Gluckstern called up the county's C.E.O., Greg Devereaux, a banty and capable civil servant.

The New Yorker

Mr. Lhota is an experienced, capable public servant who served the city well as a budget director and deputy mayor, and as head of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority.

The New York Times

Mr. Guncler's eyebrow gymnastics are matched on a grander scale by the physical exertions of the diminutive Hillel Meltzer as Passepartout, Fogg's capable French servant.

The New York Times

For instance, if a realistic robotic horse exists in 2045, a realistic robotic dog in 2050, a mentally dysfunctional humanoid robot in 2055 and a capable robotic servant in early 2060, robots would probably match the achievements of Einstein, Shakespeare and Beethoven later in 2060.

Forbes

The American people are fortunate to have such a capable public servant in such a critical domain and at such a critical time.

Huffington Post

Perry, who is also mulling a possible repeat run for president in 2016 on the Republican side, described her as a ""very, very capable public servant, great secretary of State, first lady".

Los Angeles Times

This can put an intolerable burden on a country's slim corps of capable civil servants.

The Economist

At the same time, they are fighting to prove themselves atypical young people: interested, knowledgeable and capable public servants.

The New York Times

While still in high school, Salih, today one of Iraq's most dedicated and capable public servants, had been jailed and tortured by Saddam Hussein's henchmen.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's performance, pair "capable servant" with specific achievements or qualities to showcase their effectiveness. For example, "He was a "capable servant", always anticipating the needs of the king and executing tasks with precision."

Common error

Avoid using "capable servant" in contemporary settings where it may sound archaic or overly formal. Opt for modern alternatives like "competent assistant" or "efficient staff member" to maintain relevance and avoid creating a hierarchical tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "capable servant" functions primarily as a descriptive noun phrase. It combines the adjective "capable", modifying the noun "servant", to describe someone who is efficient and skilled in their role. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through real-world examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "capable servant" is a phrase used to describe someone skilled and effective in a service role. While grammatically correct, Ludwig AI indicates its usage is relatively rare and can sound overly formal in modern contexts. As such, consider alternatives such as "competent aide" or "skilled assistant" depending on the setting. The phrase is more common in News & Media and Wiki. When using "capable servant", ensure it aligns with the overall tone and context of your writing to avoid sounding archaic or creating an unintended hierarchical impression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

competent aide

Replaces "capable" with "competent", focusing on the skill aspect, and "servant" with "aide", suggesting a more modern or administrative role.

skilled assistant

Similar to competent aide, but "skilled" highlights expertise and "assistant" implies a supportive role.

efficient worker

Shifts the focus to productivity and effectiveness, replacing the service aspect with a general work ethic.

reliable employee

Emphasizes dependability and employment status, suitable for formal settings.

proficient subordinate

Highlights skill and hierarchical position, more formal and often used in business or military contexts.

resourceful helper

Focuses on the ability to find quick and clever ways to overcome difficulties

adept minion

This alternative suggests a high degree of skill or dexterity, and that the servant is eager to please.

masterful attendant

This focuses on the person's control, and skill while attending to the needs of others.

able-bodied serf

This version focuses on the physical ability of the person and relates to historical labor.

qualified retainer

This indicates that the servant has the necessary formal qualifications and has a more long-term arrangement to look after someone else's interest.

FAQs

How can I use "capable servant" in a sentence?

You might say, "The king relied heavily on his "capable servant" to manage the kingdom's affairs", or "She proved to be a "capable servant" of the people, always putting their needs first".

What are some alternatives to "capable servant"?

Consider using alternatives like "competent aide", "skilled assistant", or "efficient worker" depending on the context.

Is "capable servant" suitable for modern professional settings?

While grammatically correct, "capable servant" might sound overly formal or even archaic in many modern professional environments. Using phrases like "efficient employee" or "competent staff member" might be more appropriate.

What is the connotation of the phrase "capable servant"?

The phrase "capable servant" generally carries a positive connotation, implying skill, reliability, and dedication to service. However, it can also suggest a hierarchical relationship, which might not be desirable in all contexts.