fairly capable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fairly capable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that has a moderate level of ability or competence in a particular area. Example: "While she may not be an expert, she is fairly capable of handling the project on her own."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

And somewhere between one-tenth and one-fifth of Iraqi security forces are now fairly capable.

The New York Times

Given that networked computers are getting cheaper (the Raspberry Pi, a fairly capable Linux server that is smaller than a bagel, can be yours for thirty-five dollars), the people can have their networks.

The New Yorker

So, a fairly capable home theater PC, then.

TechCrunch

A quick scan reveals the V20 to be fairly capable.

TechCrunch

It essentially turns the iPad into a fairly capable security camera system.

TechCrunch

In my tests Sony's recent models have been the clear video champs, though Canon's PowerShot SD500 is fairly capable, too.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

These gentlemen – no, really, they all play this nasty game fairly – are capable of scoring a minimum of 30 goals, averaging a point a game, or both.

The New York Times

I happen to think it was probably the best available outcome for the country at the time, a fairly stable government capable of taking strong decisions – even wrong ones – during a global economic crisis.

The Guardian

Stokes had clear and sensible ideas about the cars required, not overly cheap but "small, comfortable, fairly sophisticated, and capable of doing a lot of miles to a gallon of petrol".

Independent

"Supersonic cruise missiles conventionally armed, which may well be designed fairly soon, but capable of carrying nuclear weapons at times of global tension, I see as a prudent insurance policy".

Independent

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Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a skill or ability, pair "fairly capable" with specific examples to illustrate the extent of competence. For instance, "He is fairly capable in data analysis, having successfully completed several complex projects."

Common error

Avoid using "fairly capable" when the subject possesses exceptional skills. This phrase indicates a moderate level of competence, so reserve it for situations where abilities are adequate but not outstanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fairly capable" functions as an adjective phrase that modifies a noun, indicating a moderate level of skill, competence, or ability. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage is correct and common in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

27%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "fairly capable" is a useful and versatile way to describe a moderate level of competence or ability. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically correct and commonly used in various contexts. It functions as an adjective phrase, providing a balanced assessment without exaggeration. Its frequency and usage across different sources, including News & Media and Scientific publications, underscore its broad applicability. When using "fairly capable", remember to provide context and avoid overstating abilities. Alternatives like "reasonably skilled" or "moderately competent" can offer similar meanings with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reasonably skilled

Emphasizes the level of skill involved, suggesting a good degree of proficiency.

moderately competent

Focuses on competence, highlighting an acceptable level of performance.

adequately equipped

Highlights the possession of necessary resources or qualities.

sufficiently proficient

Stresses the adequacy of proficiency for a specific task or purpose.

somewhat talented

Indicates a degree of natural aptitude or skill.

passably qualified

Suggests meeting the minimum requirements for a role or task.

relatively able

Emphasizes ability in comparison to others or a standard.

pretty good

A more informal way to express adequate capability.

serviceable

Highlights the functional adequacy for a particular need.

up to par

Meaning that one meets the required standard

FAQs

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

"Fairly capable" is used to describe someone or something that has a moderate degree of ability or competence. For example: "The software is fairly capable of handling most tasks."

What's the difference between "fairly capable" and "very capable"?

"Fairly capable" suggests a moderate level of ability, while "very capable" implies a high degree of competence. The choice depends on the specific context and the intended level of emphasis.

Are there any synonyms for "fairly capable"?

Yes, you can use alternatives like "reasonably skilled", "moderately competent", or "adequately equipped" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "fairly capable" in formal writing?

Yes, "fairly capable" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when you need to provide an accurate and measured assessment of someone's or something's abilities without exaggeration.