hamper the ability

USAGE SUMMARY

'hamper the ability' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in a sentence when you want to talk about something that is hindering or impeding someone's ability to do something. For example: "The lack of resources is hampering the ability of the school to provide an adequate education for its students."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

If copyright were to be enforced absolutely it would hamper the ability to innovate and create.

The Guardian - Opinion

How do the decades-long climate cycles hamper the ability of scientists to make predictions about Antarctica's future?

The New York Times

desirable neighborhoods could hamper the ability of children born poor or middle class to get ahead as adults.

The Washington Post

These involuntary reactions hamper the ability to be rational, pragmatic and open to new ways of thinking.

The New York Times

Both oil and dispersants, which chemically resemble dishwashing detergent, hamper the ability of corals to colonize and reproduce.

The New York Times

Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg and sanitation officials had opposed the proliferation of parking holidays, saying they hamper the ability to keep the streets clean.

The New York Times

Even where health centres have access to power, frequent power shortages significantly hamper the ability to provide quality care, it says.

The Guardian

McConnell responded that this would hamper the ability of the intelligence community to collect information about dangerous foreign powers such as Iran and North Korea.

The New Yorker

North Vietnam took place in late 1968 or early 1969 when rain was increased in an attempt to hamper the ability of antiaircraft missiles to hit.

The New York Times

But other countries, like Nicaragua and Bolivia, will feel the bite, and it may hamper the ability of a successor to retain the support of regional leaders.

The New York Times

France is among the nations suspicious of the move, warning that it could hamper the ability of Eurozone countries' ability to respond to crises.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "hamper the ability", clearly identify what specific factor or circumstance is causing the hindrance. This adds clarity and strengthens the impact of your statement.

Common error

Ensure that the subject performing the action is clear. Avoid using vague pronouns that might obscure who or what is having their ability hampered.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hamper the ability" functions as a verb phrase that indicates a negative impact on someone or something's capacity to perform a task. It is typically used to describe how a certain factor or situation hinders progress or effectiveness. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

31%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Academia

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "hamper the ability" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that conveys the idea of hindering or limiting someone's capacity to do something. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its usage is correct across diverse contexts. It is particularly prevalent in "News & Media" and "Science", and is considered neutral in register. Alternatives include "restrict the ability", "impede the ability", and "hinder the ability". When using the phrase, ensure that you clearly identify the hindering factor. By avoiding vague pronouns, you can ensure clarity in your writing. With a high expert rating and widespread use, "hamper the ability" is a reliable and effective choice for expressing limitations or obstacles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

restrict the ability

This alternative shares a similar meaning of limiting or controlling ability.

impede the ability

This suggests a hindering or obstruction of ability.

hinder the ability

This alternative has a very similar meaning of delaying or obstructing ability.

constrain the ability

This focuses on imposing limitations on ability.

inhibit the ability

This alternative emphasizes the suppression or restraint of ability.

undermine the ability

This suggests weakening or eroding ability.

impair the ability

This alternative indicates damaging or weakening ability.

reduce the capacity

Focuses on the lessening of the aptitude for something.

diminish the potential

This alternative highlights the reduction of future possibilities or capabilities.

cripple the capacity

This alternative suggests a severe damaging of someone's capability.

FAQs

How can I use "hamper the ability" in a sentence?

You can use "hamper the ability" to describe how something negatively affects someone's capacity to do something. For example: "Budget cuts "hamper the ability" of hospitals to respond to disasters."

What are some alternatives to "hamper the ability"?

Alternatives include "restrict the ability", "impede the ability", or "hinder the ability", all conveying a similar meaning of hindering or limiting capacity.

What is the difference between "hamper the ability" and "undermine the ability"?

"Hamper the ability" suggests a hindrance or impediment, while "undermine the ability" implies a weakening or erosion of capability.

Is "hamper the ability" formal or informal?

"Hamper the ability" is suitable for both formal and neutral contexts, as shown by its frequent use in news articles, scientific papers, and business reports.