it is able

USAGE SUMMARY

"It is able" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to express the capability of someone or something, for example: "The new software is able to perform complex calculations with ease."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

China can only do its best as it is able.

The New York Times

Besides, it is able to assign its transfer targets and to secure against most RFID attacks.

Electronic Commerce Research and Applications

It is able to dimerize, most likely enabled by its hAT transposase-like dimerization domain.

BMC Plant Biology

It is able to survive on dry ground.

The Economist

It is able to distinguish malignant from benign tumors.

Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research Section A: Accelerators, Spectrometers, Detectors and Associated Equipment

Consequently, it is able to provide a more general application.

International Journal of Production Economics

Thereby it is able to achieve full traceability.

Computers in Industry

Using these components, it is able to provide personalised services.

Journal of Internet Services and Applications

It is able to reduce paraffin waxy components and viscosity.

Journal of Petroleum Exploration and Production Technology

Thus, it is able to recommend DBMS-specific structures.

Journal of Big Data

It is able to bend, stretch and exert suction.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is able" to clearly and directly state a capability or potential, especially when providing explanations or technical descriptions.

Common error

Avoid using "it is able" excessively in casual conversation or informal writing; simpler alternatives like "it can" often sound more natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is able" functions as a statement of capability, indicating that a subject possesses the capacity or potential to perform a specific action. Ludwig confirms this usage through various examples, highlighting its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

75%

News & Media

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is able" functions as a straightforward declaration of capability, widely recognized and accepted in English writing. Ludwig's analysis, supported by diverse real-world examples, confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, especially in scientific and news-related contexts. While versatile, simpler alternatives like "it can" may be more appropriate in informal settings. This is also supported by Ludwig AI.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it can

Offers a more concise and direct way of expressing ability.

it is capable of

Emphasizes potential and inherent ability.

it has the ability to

Highlights the presence of a specific skill or capacity.

it is equipped to

Suggests that something is prepared or outfitted for a particular task.

it is in a position to

Indicates that circumstances allow for a certain action.

it is empowered to

Suggests that something has been given the authority or power to act.

it is designed to

Focuses on the intended function or purpose.

it is apt to

Suggests a natural tendency or inclination.

it is liable to

Implies a possibility or risk of something happening.

it is prone to

Indicates a susceptibility or vulnerability.

FAQs

What is a simpler alternative to "it is able"?

A simpler and more direct alternative to "it is able" is "it can". This option is often preferable in less formal contexts.

When is it appropriate to use "it is able"?

Use "it is able" when you want to clearly emphasize the capacity or potential of something, especially in technical, scientific, or formal writing. It is suitable when a direct statement of capability is required.

Is "it is able to" the same as "it is capable of"?

While similar, "it is able to" and "it is capable of" have subtle differences. "It is able to" is a more general statement of ability, while "it is capable of" suggests an inherent potential or readiness to perform a specific action.

How can I improve my writing by using alternatives to "it is able"?

Varying your language by using alternatives like "it is equipped to" or "it is designed to" can add nuance and sophistication to your writing, making it more engaging and precise. Consider the specific context to choose the most appropriate alternative.