considerable ability

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "considerable ability" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to someone or something that has a lot of talent or skill in a particular area. For example, "She demonstrated her considerable ability as a musician when she performed the piano solo."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

So why the considerable ability to sense odors?

The New York Times - Science

Well, they've got considerable ability with their own tax bases.

The Guardian

Still, why does it retain "considerable ability to set the agenda," to quote Zakaria?

The New York Times - Books

He was a man of considerable ability, who had qualified as a barrister at night school.

The Guardian

No doubt this helped foster his considerable ability as a listener.

The Guardian - Music

Derain had considerable ability as a decorator and created theatrical designs, notably for the Ballets Russes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

Two actors gamely play the principals to the best of their (considerable) abilities.

The Guardian - Film

Nikon's D700, priced at $2,995, packs the considerable abilities of the company's hefty $5,000 flagship, the D3, into a more svelte 2.2-pound device.

The New York Times - Tech

She will never be one of the company's stars; this will not have been the place that made or nourished her or stretched her considerable abilities.

The New York Times - Arts

So if there is constant speculation that Ms. Sandberg is being groomed to take over the chief executive role, it could create organizational and political stresses that may well test her considerable abilities.

The New York Times

But unlike some of the talented actresses of her generation, like Nicole Kidman, whose considerable abilities often disappear under the scrutiny of the tabloids, Blanchett has risen to the top of a brutally competitive profession without appearing to have sacrificed her creative aspirations or her grounded, just-folks quality.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's strengths, use "considerable ability" to indicate a noteworthy level of skill, but be specific about the area where that ability lies. For example, "She has considerable ability in data analysis."

Common error

Avoid using "considerable ability" as a generic compliment. Always specify the skill or area where the ability is evident to provide meaningful context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "considerable ability" functions primarily as a descriptor, modifying a noun to indicate a significant level of skill or competence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct. Examples demonstrate it describing personal attributes, or properties of more tangible things, such as software or images.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Encyclopedias

17%

Science

27%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "considerable ability" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that describes a significant level of skill or competence. As Ludwig AI explains, it's suitable for various contexts, including news, encyclopedias, and scientific literature. While versatile, it's most effective when used with specific details about the skill being described. Alternatives include "substantial capability" and "significant talent". Remember to avoid vagueness and always provide context to showcase the "considerable ability" being highlighted.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

substantial capability

Replaces "ability" with "capability" and "considerable" with "substantial", emphasizing capacity.

significant talent

Substitutes "ability" with "talent", focusing on innate aptitude.

remarkable competence

Replaces "ability" with "competence", highlighting proficiency.

exceptional skill

Uses "skill" instead of "ability" and "exceptional" for "considerable", suggesting a high level of expertise.

notable expertise

Replaces "ability" with "expertise", indicating specialized knowledge and skill.

high degree of competence

Elaborates by using "high degree" instead of a single adjective.

profound aptitude

Emphasizes a natural inclination and depth of skill.

marked proficiency

Highlights a clear and noticeable level of skill.

strong capacity

Focuses on the inherent potential and power to perform.

great potential

Shifts focus from current ability to future possibilities.

FAQs

How can I use "considerable ability" in a sentence?

You can use "considerable ability" to describe someone's high level of skill in a particular area. For example, "The athlete demonstrated "considerable ability" in long-distance running."

What are some alternatives to "considerable ability"?

Alternatives to "considerable ability" include "substantial capability", "significant talent", or "remarkable competence". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "considerable ability and skill"?

While "ability" and "skill" are similar, using both can sometimes emphasize the breadth of someone's capabilities. However, in most cases, choosing one or the other is sufficient. Consider rephrasing for clarity if redundancy is a concern. For example, '"exceptional skill"' or '"profound aptitude"'.

What is the difference between "considerable ability" and "potential ability"?

"Considerable ability" refers to a demonstrated high level of competence, whereas "potential ability" refers to a capacity for skill that has not yet been fully developed or demonstrated. For example, someone might have "considerable ability" in painting because they've produced many excellent works, while another may show "great potential" but still needs to hone their craft.