is still capable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is still capable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that someone or something continues to have the ability or capacity to perform a task or function. Example: "Despite the challenges, she is still capable of achieving her goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Irene is still capable of jealousy.

The New York Times

Yet he is still capable of flashes of humour.

The Guardian - Film

AIPAC is still capable of mounting a show of bipartisanship.

The New Yorker

But George Osborne is still capable of guile and surprise.

The Economist

But his stately, teasing performance merely hinted at the fireworks he is still capable of releasing.

The New York Times

Still not wholly open, the 2000 is still capable of surprises.

The New York Times

She is still capable of compelling work, though one never can tell what to expect.

The New York Times

And Mr. Burke is still capable of having his adult-hardened heart melted.

The New York Times

But he is still capable of adding a twist to the plot.

The Guardian - Sport

Underneath the cynicism and professions of indifference, Astrov's heart is still capable of feeling real anguish.

The New York Times

Alan is still capable of saying the worst possible thing in any given situation.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is still capable" to highlight the persistence of a skill or ability despite challenges, age, or other limiting factors. This emphasizes resilience and enduring competence.

Common error

Avoid using "is still capable" in situations where the ability is obvious and unremarkable. Opt for simpler phrasing when the capability is expected and not particularly noteworthy. For instance, instead of saying "He is still capable of breathing", just say "He is breathing".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is still capable" functions as a predicate adjective phrase. It describes the subject by asserting that they continue to possess a specific ability or quality. As noted by Ludwig, the phrase indicates an enduring capacity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is still capable" is a versatile and common way to express the continuation of an ability or potential, particularly when there might be doubt or expectation to the contrary. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical status is correct. It is most frequently found in news and media and scientific contexts. When using it, emphasize resilience and enduring competence. Avoid overuse in simplistic contexts where the ability is obvious. Consider alternatives like "remains able" or "is yet able" for nuanced expressions. By following these guidelines, you can effectively use "is still capable" to enhance your writing and communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

remains able

Emphasizes the continuation of an ability, similar to the original phrase but with a slightly more formal tone.

is yet able

Suggests that the ability exists and has not diminished, focusing on the present state.

can still manage

Highlights the ability to handle or accomplish something, adding a sense of effort or resourcefulness.

is yet competent

Focuses on the competence or skill level that remains, highlighting proficiency.

is even now able

Adds emphasis on the current moment, stressing that the ability persists even now.

is still equipped

Suggests the person or object retains the necessary resources or attributes.

is nonetheless capable

Introduces a sense of contrast, implying that despite some obstacle, the ability remains.

retains the capacity

A more formal alternative, emphasizing the inherent ability to do something.

has the residual skill

Highlights that some amount of skill remains, even if diminished.

continues to possess the ability

Formally states the ongoing possession of an ability.

FAQs

How can I use "is still capable" in a sentence?

You can use "is still capable" to emphasize the continuing ability of someone or something to perform a specific action, especially when there might be doubt or an expectation to the contrary. For example, "Even after the injury, she "is still capable" of running marathons".

What can I say instead of "is still capable"?

Alternatives include "remains able", "is yet able", or "can still manage" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct: "is still capable" or "is yet capable"?

Both "is still capable" and "is yet capable" are grammatically correct, but they carry slightly different connotations. "Is still capable" emphasizes the continuation of an existing ability, while "is yet capable" suggests an ability that exists but hasn't been fully demonstrated or utilized.

What's the difference between "is still capable" and "remains capable"?

"Is still capable" and "remains capable" are very similar in meaning, both indicating a continuing ability. "Remains capable" tends to sound more formal and emphasizes the persistence of the ability over time, while "is still capable" can highlight the ability despite current circumstances.