capable servants

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "capable servants" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe individuals who are skilled and able to perform tasks or duties effectively, often in a context related to service or assistance. Example: "The organization prides itself on having capable servants who are dedicated to meeting the needs of the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 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

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

Capable civil servants who take pride in their work are a prerequisite for it, and anti-government talk surely doesn't make it any easier to recruit such people.

The New York Times

I think that Admiral Hayden and Mike McConnell at D.N.I. were capable public servants who really had America's security interests in mind when they acted, and I think were mindful of American values and ideals.

The New York Times

"I am hopeful and confident that very capable public servants with a desire to serve in the Senate will step up as candidates for this important office.

Huffington Post

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

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "capable servants", ensure the context aligns with the traditional sense of service, avoiding its use in modern contexts where "employees" or "staff" might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "capable servants" when referring to modern-day employees or staff; the term carries historical connotations that might not align with contemporary workplace dynamics. Use alternatives like "competent staff" or "skilled team members" for a more appropriate tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "capable servants" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "capable" modifies the noun "servants". It describes individuals who possess the ability and skill to perform their duties effectively. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Wiki

25%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "capable servants" is grammatically correct and describes individuals skilled in service roles. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, its usage is relatively rare and leans toward neutral to formal registers. The phrase's connotation aligns with traditional service roles, and modern contexts may benefit from alternatives like "competent staff" or "skilled employees". Predominantly found in news media and encyclopedic sources, understanding its appropriate context is key to effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

competent aides

Replaces "servants" with "aides", suggesting a more supportive and less subordinate role.

skilled assistants

Focuses on the skill level of those providing assistance, rather than their role as "servants".

proficient employees

Emphasizes the professional nature of the individuals, highlighting their efficiency and expertise.

efficient staff

Highlights the overall efficiency of a group of workers, rather than individual capabilities.

able subordinates

Replaces "servants" with "subordinates", focusing on hierarchical structure and the ability of those in lower positions.

qualified personnel

Focuses on the qualifications and suitability of individuals for a specific role or task.

resourceful retainers

Emphasizes the resourcefulness of individuals retained for service, suggesting a historical or traditional context.

adept helpers

Highlights the skill and dexterity of those offering help or assistance.

effective workforce

Focuses on the effectiveness and productivity of a group of workers.

experienced crew

Emphasizes the experience and teamwork of a group working together.

FAQs

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

You can use "capable servants" to describe individuals who are skilled and reliable in providing assistance or service, often in a historical or traditional context. For example: "The success of the estate depended on the efforts of its "capable servants"".

What's a more modern alternative to "capable servants"?

In contemporary contexts, alternatives like "competent staff", "skilled employees", or "efficient team members" are often more appropriate than "capable servants".

Is "capable servants" formal or informal language?

"Capable servants" leans towards a more formal register due to the historical association of the term "servants". Depending on the situation, alternatives like "competent helpers" or "skilled assistants" might be more suitable.

What is the difference between "capable servants" and "competent employees"?

While both phrases describe skilled individuals, "capable servants" implies a traditional, often domestic, service role. "Competent employees", on the other hand, suggests a modern, professional work environment. The choice depends on the context you intend to evoke.