is it able to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is it able to" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to ask about the capability or possibility of something. Here is an example: "Is it able to handle heavy loads?" (Asking about the capability of a machine or tool).

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

The spotted hyena is very efficient at eating its prey; not only is it able to splinter and eat the largest ungulate bones, it is also able to digest them completely.

Wikipedia

Is the program able to help grantees who don't initially value synergy learn to do so, and is it able to provide grantees with the skills they need?

BMC Health Services Research

How is it able to charge hostel-style prices?

The Guardian - Travel

What is it able to do that previous crafts could not?

The New York Times

So how is it able to keep staging attacks across the country?

The New York Times

Why is it able to disrupt industry after industry, and topple the mightiest of incumbents?

Harvard Business Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

How was it able to go forward?

The New York Times

That is, it was able to.

Huffington Post

Is it being able to telecommute?

Forbes

Is it being able to menstruate?

Huffington Post

"That historically is how it is able to modernize.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is it able to", ensure the context clearly defines what "it" refers to, avoiding ambiguity. For example, instead of "Is it able to?", specify: "Is the software able to process large datasets?"

Common error

Avoid vague references. Ensure that the "it" in "is it able to" has a clear and immediate antecedent in your sentence or preceding sentences. Lack of clarity can confuse the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is it able to" functions as an interrogative expression used to inquire about the capability or capacity of a subject to perform a specific action. As confirmed by Ludwig, this construction is grammatically sound and commonly employed in English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is it able to" is a grammatically correct and frequently used construction to inquire about the capability or potential of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is widespread across various contexts, from news media and scientific publications to wikis. While versatile, ensuring a clear pronoun reference is crucial for effective communication. Alternative phrases like "can it" or "is it capable of" can be used depending on the desired level of formality and emphasis. Understanding its function and potential for ambiguity helps in utilizing "is it able to" effectively in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can it

Replaces "is it able to" with a shorter, more direct question of capability.

is it capable of

Substitutes "able" with "capable", emphasizing inherent ability.

does it have the capacity to

Replaces "is it able to" with a more formal phrasing emphasizing potential.

is it equipped to

Focuses on whether something possesses the necessary tools or resources.

is it in a position to

Highlights the circumstances enabling a particular action.

is it permitted to

Shifts the focus from ability to whether something is allowed.

is it authorized to

A more formal alternative to "is it permitted to", emphasizing official approval.

is it eligible to

Indicates whether something meets the requirements to do something.

is it designed to

Focuses on the intended functionality or purpose.

is it qualified to

Highlights whether something has the necessary skills or training.

FAQs

How can I use "is it able to" in a sentence?

Use "is it able to" to ask about the capability of something to perform a specific action. For example: "Is it able to swim across the lake?"

What's a more formal way to say "is it able to"?

For a more formal tone, you can use phrases such as "is it capable of" or "does it have the capacity to" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "is it able to" or "can it"?

Both "is it able to" and "can it" are grammatically correct, but "can it" is more concise and often preferred in informal contexts. "Is it able to" may be used for emphasis or in more formal settings.

What's the difference between "is it able to" and "is it allowed to"?

"Is it able to" refers to the capacity or capability to do something, while "is it allowed to" refers to whether permission has been granted. For example, "Is it able to lift 100 pounds?" (capability) versus "Is it allowed to enter the building?" (permission).