give the ability

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'give the ability' is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to indicate that something is providing an opportunity or capability. For example, "This course will give you the ability to use new software programs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

However, the umami receptor does give the ability to distinguish between naturally occurring amino acids and is sensitive to MSG.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The taller ceilings you find in the typical warehouse also give the ability to create interesting internal spaces, using cove lighting and paint color and other elements".

The New York Times

On top of this, and similarly to PS4, new apps give the ability to extend content made in your living room straight to the gaming community.

The Guardian - Tech

If this deal survives Congressional scrutiny in the US, Iran will, in the second decade, have the right to build an industrial scale enrichment programme which would give the ability to acquire nuclear weapons at the moment of its choosing.

Independent

Only knowledge about their respective functional attributes will give the ability to separate the two concepts.

Life Sciences, Society and Policy

The long alkyl chains on DSHPG give the ability of Au NPs to be well dispersed in nonpolar solvents.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

I think I was given the ability to do it".

The New York Times - Sports

A man on crutches is given the ability to walk (and dance).

The New York Times - Arts

'It's really given the ability for people to meet in a non-dating site.

The Guardian

But should cars be given the ability to intervene, as well as simply monitor?

The Guardian

Users were not given the ability to opt out of the consolidation.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "give the ability" when you want to emphasize that something provides a specific capacity or power to achieve a particular outcome. For example, "The new software will give users the ability to analyze data more efficiently."

Common error

Avoid phrasing sentences such that the subject is merely receiving the ability rather than actively using it. For example, instead of "Employees were given the ability to work from home", try "The company gave employees the ability to work from home", to show agency.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "give the ability" functions as a verb phrase that indicates the act of granting or providing a capacity, skill, or opportunity to someone or something. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase as correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

38%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "give the ability" is a grammatically sound and relatively common expression used to denote the act of providing a capacity or opportunity. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and utility in various contexts, especially within news, scientific writing, and general discourse. While versatile, being mindful of the tone (formal or informal) of the context and using it actively will ensure clear and impactful communication. Consider alternative phrases like "provide the capability" or "enable" for stylistic variations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

provide the capability

Focuses on the provision of a general capability rather than a specific ability.

enable the potential

Highlights the activation of an existing potential.

afford the opportunity

Formal and emphasizes the chance to do something.

offer the chance

Emphasizes the opportunity aspect, suggesting a possibility to do something.

furnish the means

Focuses on providing the resources necessary for something.

grant the power

Suggests a formal or authoritative bestowal of power.

allow the possibility

Emphasizes enabling a potential outcome.

bestow the capacity

Formal and emphasizes inherent potential.

impart the skill

Highlights the transfer of a learned skill.

confer the aptitude

Highlights a natural talent or inclination.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "give the ability" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases such as "provide the capability", "afford the opportunity", or "confer the power" depending on the specific context.

What is a simpler way to express "give the ability"?

You can simplify the phrase by using alternatives like "allow", "enable", or "permit". For example, "This tool enables users to easily create reports".

Is it better to use "give the ability to" or "give the ability of"?

The correct and more common usage is "give the ability to" followed by a verb. For example, "give the ability to create". "Give the ability of" is grammatically awkward and rarely used.

What are some synonyms for "ability" that can be used with "give the"?

Instead of "ability", you could use synonyms such as "power", "capacity", "opportunity", or "chance" to add nuance to your writing.