exactly able

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exactly able" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward or unclear.
It could be used in contexts where you want to emphasize a precise capability or skill, but it is better to use more standard expressions. Example: "She is exactly able to complete the task on time, given her experience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

And "Wet isn't exactly able to take out commercials during reruns of 'Full House,' " he adds.

The New York Times

Since we are not using SVM, we are not exactly able to tell how much of the better performance is obtained due to SVM.

EURASIP Journal on Image and Video Processing

We talked about some of the things that might make up privilege -- whether or not quality schools are in your neighborhood, or whether or not your parents are working two or three jobs to keep things going and are therefore not exactly able to be around and check on homework, or whether or not you can feel safe when you step outside.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Not exactly the "able-bodied" folks our legislators talk about.

Huffington Post

These vulnerable households receive 83% of all SNAP benefits". Not exactly the "able-bodied" folks our legislators talk about.

HuffPost

"I also remember thinking that the answer to most of the dating questions we fielded was 'guys are terrible,' but not exactly being able to write that".

The New York Times

He is an "I don't sweat the small stuff" kind of guy, but still, outside in the real world, he hasn't exactly been able to do much big-picture letting go.

The New York Times - Arts

If you have a very narrow view of the fandom, then you won't exactly be able to be the best spokesperson for it.

WikiHow

A private individual would likely be cheaper, but you won't exactly be able to return it or have the buyer pay for the repairs.

WikiHow

This time, they put away their Buddha Machines, the custom-made musical loop players they're best known for, in favor of iPhones, iPads, and Macbook Pros to create punchy, Zen-inspired techno music that'll make you feel like dancing even though it's not exactly dance-able.

Vice

I invite anyone who will accompany me to visit the local branch of any bank in Cleveland and to inquire about what is required exactly to be able to refinance at the currently advertised rates".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "exactly able", ensure that the context requires emphasis on precision and accuracy in ability. It's stronger when highlighting a specific, measurable skill or capability.

Common error

Avoid using "exactly able" when a simpler term like "able", "capable", or "qualified" would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound stilted or unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exactly able" functions as a pre-modifying adjective phrase, intensifying the ability being described. It specifies the accuracy and precision of the ability, as evidenced by Ludwig examples where it emphasizes a capability to achieve something with exactness.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Academia

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "exactly able" is grammatically correct, though infrequent. Ludwig AI indicates that its primary function is to emphasize precision and accuracy in ability. Its usage tends to be neutral to formal, often appearing in news, science, and academic contexts. While valid, consider alternatives like "precisely capable" or "perfectly capable" for smoother phrasing. Overusing it can make your writing sound unnatural, so reserve it for when precision is key.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

precisely capable

Emphasizes accuracy and skill, similar to "exactly able" but with different word choice.

perfectly capable

Highlights the completeness and skill in performing a task.

fully equipped

Focuses on having all the necessary resources or skills.

entirely competent

Stresses the overall ability and qualification to handle something.

completely skilled

Highlights the skill level without necessarily implying precision.

adept with precision

Involves a change in structure. Specifies skillfulness and precise execution.

expertly qualified

Highlights the level of expertise and qualification.

absolutely proficient

Underscores a high level of proficiency and competence.

masterfully adept

Emphasizes mastery and skill, adding a flair of expertise.

distinctly talented

Focuses on innate talent and clear capability.

FAQs

How can I use "exactly able" in a sentence?

Use "exactly able" when you want to emphasize precise capability. For instance, "She is exactly able to calculate the trajectory" highlights her precise skill in trajectory calculation.

What phrases are similar to "exactly able"?

You can use phrases like "precisely capable", "perfectly capable", or "fully equipped" depending on the context.

Is "exactly able" formal or informal?

While grammatically correct, "exactly able" leans toward a slightly more formal tone due to its emphasis on precision. It fits well in technical or professional writing.

When should I avoid using "exactly able"?

Avoid using "exactly able" when a simpler term like "able" is sufficient. In everyday conversation, phrases like "completely skilled" or "entirely competent" might sound more natural.