if capable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "if capable" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is used to express a condition or possibility. For example: "If capable, I will join you for dinner tonight."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

Older students, if capable, are mainstreamed into the regular school system.

The New York Times

"Would it be expected that an assistant chief constable would step in if capable of doing so?" Myers asked.

The Guardian

Nor could it succeed in the long-term if "capable people are paid to stay idle and out of work".

Independent

If capable, those between the ages of 15 and 70 are required to fast 19 days a year, going without food or drink from sunrise to sunset.

Britannica

2. If capable, we can and should utilize our privilege and the spaces we occupy to facilitate resistance, even in the face of presumed hopelessness or pessimism (the two are not to be conflated).

Columbia University

After Greece and Italy this month, Spain will likely garner a cluster of bland — if capable — leaders at its helm, the strongest response that ailing Southern Europe has so far mustered in face of unstinting market demand for change.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

Many of the allegations, if not capable of justification, are highly defamatory".

The Guardian

Instead, I had better luck with a less demanding, if less capable, device called Loc8tor Lite.

The New York Times

If a capable declarer unnecessarily gives you a chance to win an "impossible" trump trick, be extremely suspicious.

The New York Times

It had been a long eight years for Percy, and questions were being asked if was capable of delivering again.

The Guardian - Sport

10 OUR FATHER (David Pipe) Erratic, if sometimes capable, grey who has been very much more miss than hit of late.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience when using "if capable". In formal writing, it is perfectly acceptable, but in very informal settings, consider using simpler alternatives like "if able".

Common error

While grammatically correct, "if capable" can sound overly formal in casual conversations. Opt for more relaxed alternatives like "if you can" or "if possible" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if capable" functions as an adverbial clause of condition, modifying the main clause by introducing a requirement or contingency. Ludwig AI indicates this phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

28%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "if capable" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that introduces a condition based on one's ability or capacity. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and suitability across diverse contexts, from news and scientific writing to academic discourse. While generally neutral, it can sound formal in casual settings. Consider using simpler alternatives like "if able" or "if possible" in less formal communication to maintain a natural and appropriate tone. "If capable" is versatile, but clarity and audience awareness will make your writing effective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if able

Replaces "capable" with "able", simplifying the language while retaining the conditional aspect.

if competent

Substitutes "capable" with "competent", emphasizing the required skills or qualifications.

should they be capable

Inverts the sentence structure to emphasize capability as a condition.

if it is within their power

Expresses capability in terms of having the power or resources to do something.

in the event they are capable

Adds formality by using "in the event", indicating a conditional scenario.

provided they have the capacity

Replaces "capable" with "capacity", highlighting the availability of resources or ability.

assuming they are equipped

Focuses on having the necessary equipment or skills to perform an action.

if it's feasible

Shifts the focus to the practicality or feasibility of performing the action.

where possible

Generalizes the condition to any situation where something is possible to do.

if circumstances allow

Highlights that the ability to do something depends on the surrounding circumstances.

FAQs

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

You can use "if capable" to introduce a conditional ability or action. For instance, "If capable, please submit your reports by Friday" indicates that the submission depends on one's ability to do so.

What are some alternatives to "if capable"?

Alternatives include "if able", "if possible", or "if competent depending on the context".

Is there a difference between using "if capable" and "if able"?

"If capable" implies a degree of skill or capacity is needed, while "if able" is more general, referring to having the basic ability to do something. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize specific skills.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "if capable"?

It's appropriate to use "if capable" when describing a situation where the ability or capacity to perform an action is uncertain or conditional. It is well suited for formal or technical contexts.