it is capable of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'it is capable of' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that something is able to do or achieve something. For example: "This new computer is capable of running high-performance software."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It is capable of both cellulose solubilization and its fermentation to produce lignocellulosic ethanol.

Biotechnology for Biofuels

It is capable of multiple uses.

The New York Times - Books

"Like any Category 4, it is capable of extensive damage.

The New York Times

It is capable of 35.8 trillion operations a second.

The New York Times

Being matter it is capable of being photographed.

The New Yorker

It is capable of carrying a digital SLR camera.

The Guardian - Tech

It is capable of carrying up to 167 passengers.

The Guardian

Like most urges, it is capable of sublimation.

The New Yorker

It is capable of long-sustained and rapid flight.

Britannica

It is capable of conducting some electricity, but not much.

Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

It is capable of launching intact, neutral, or low charged molecules into a high vacuum environment.

Analytical Chemistry

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is capable of" to highlight a specific ability or function, especially when discussing technical specifications or inherent properties.

Common error

Avoid using "it is capable of" in simple sentences where "it can" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily formal and stilted. For example, instead of "The software is capable of opening the file", consider "The software can open the file".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is capable of" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun. It indicates the inherent ability or potential of something to perform a specific action or function. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in expressing capability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

37%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is capable of" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe the abilities or potential functions of a subject. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and utility. It is particularly common in scientific, academic, and news-related contexts. While versatile, writers should be mindful of its formality and avoid overuse in simple sentences where "it can" would suffice. Remember to employ this phrase when precision and a slightly elevated tone are desired, focusing on the inherent capabilities of the subject at hand.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is able to

A more direct synonym, emphasizing the power to perform a specific action.

it has the ability to

Replaces "capable" with "ability", focusing on the inherent potential of something.

it can

A shorter, more informal way of expressing capability.

it has the potential to

Emphasizes the future possibility of achieving something.

it is equipped to

Highlights the preparations or features that enable a certain action.

it is designed to

Focuses on the intended purpose and inherent capabilities of the subject.

it is in a position to

Highlights the circumstances that allow a specific action.

it is apt to

Suggests a natural tendency or inclination towards a certain outcome.

it is liable to

Indicates a susceptibility or vulnerability to a particular result, often negative.

it is prone to

Implies a predisposition towards something, typically undesirable.

FAQs

How can I use "it is capable of" in a sentence?

Use "it is capable of" to describe the abilities or potential functions of a subject. For instance, "The new model "it is capable of" processing large datasets efficiently".

What are some alternatives to "it is capable of"?

Alternatives include "it is able to", "it can", or "it has the ability to", each offering slightly different nuances in formality and emphasis.

Which is more appropriate: "it is capable of" or "it can"?

"It is capable of" is more formal and often used in technical or descriptive contexts. "It can" is more informal and suitable for everyday language. The choice depends on the tone and audience of your writing.

How does "it is capable of" differ from "it is designed to"?

"It is capable of" describes what something is inherently able to do, while "it is designed to" emphasizes the intended purpose or function for which something was created. For example, "This phone "it is capable of" making calls" versus "This phone "it is designed to" enhance user experience".