display an ability

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "display an ability" is correct and can be used in written English.
For example, "He displayed an ability to connect with people."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

But juries routinely display an ability to thread needles in intriguing ways.

The New York Times

But some Republican politicians display an ability to absorb the heat and reflect it back in more politically promising directions.

The New York Times

They did display an ability to distribute the ball to the three players who figure to provide the bulk of the Nets' offense until Kidd returns: Richard Jefferson and two newcomers, shooting guards Ron Mercer and Rodney Buford.

The New York Times - Sports

A large number of small molecules synthesized in recent years display an ability to selectively target and stabilize G-quadruplexes.

Biochimie

Humans (and many less intelligent animals) display an ability to learn from single events; for example an animal that eats a food that later causes gastric distress will never try that food again.

SEP

His early works, such as the "Holiday Overture" and the "Piano Sonata," display an ability to get notes onto the page in a pleasant and felicitous manner.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

The court had heard Spackman had displayed "an ability to conduct complicated deceptions within a police environment".

The Guardian

And for the first time in the series, Luna Rossa was displaying an ability to mix it up.

The New York Times - Sports

In these scenes Mr. Woo displays an ability to startle without resorting to the bad-taste horror-movie shock employed in "Private Ryan".

The New York Times

But, as on Moon Song, Karen O displays an ability to articulate raw emotion here, be it on the subject of love, loneliness or strength of will.

The Guardian - Music

A major work that displays an ability to channel an initial burst of energy into a large-scale musical event, built with masterful control and consistently intriguing to the ear.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a skill, follow "display an ability" with a specific action or task to provide context.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "display an ability" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "show" or "demonstrate" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "display an ability" functions as a verb phrase, where "display" acts as a transitive verb taking "ability" as its object. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and can be used in written English. It describes the act of showing or demonstrating a particular skill or capacity.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "display an ability" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that serves to highlight a demonstrated skill or capacity. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples from credible sources. While its register leans towards neutral to formal, it is widely used in news, science, and encyclopedic contexts. Alternatives such as "demonstrate a capability" or "exhibit a talent" offer nuanced ways to convey similar meanings. When writing, consider the level of formality appropriate for your audience to determine whether "display an ability" or a simpler alternative is the best choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

demonstrate a capability

Emphasizes a proven ability to perform a task.

manifest a skill

Implies a clear and obvious demonstration of skill.

exhibit a talent

Focuses on a natural aptitude or gift.

show a proficiency

Highlights competence and skill in a particular area.

reveal a knack

Suggests an inherent talent or ease in doing something.

have an aptitude

Highlights a natural inclination or talent.

possess the capacity

Focuses on the potential or inherent capability.

perform skillfully

Emphasizes the quality of execution.

excel at something

Indicates a high level of competence and achievement.

shine in a particular area

Suggests outstanding performance and talent.

FAQs

How can I use "display an ability" in a sentence?

You can use "display an ability" to describe someone showing a particular skill. For instance, "The athlete "displayed an ability" to remain calm under pressure".

What are some alternatives to "display an ability"?

Alternatives include "demonstrate a capability", "exhibit a talent", or "show a proficiency", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more formal to say "display an ability" or "show an ability"?

"Display an ability" generally carries a more formal tone than "show an ability". "Display" suggests a more deliberate or pronounced demonstration.

What's the difference between "display an ability" and "possess an ability"?

"Display an ability" refers to an observable demonstration of a skill, while "possess the capacity" implies having the inherent capability, whether or not it's currently being shown.