limited ability

USAGE SUMMARY

"limited ability" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe someone's skills or potential, for example: "She has a limited ability to make complex decisions quickly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Cows have limited ability to sweat.

Cornell University

"And they had a limited ability to repay.

The New Yorker

We have limited ability to do cost cutting".

The New York Times

Fully differentiated hiPS-CMs hold limited ability to proliferate.

Nature

"We could be in a world," Mr. Sack said, "where workers will have limited ability to negotiate higher pay and companies will have limited ability to raise prices".

The New York Times

Furthermore, the very limited ability to unmask teratogenicity is delineated.

Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology

"But the gangs have a limited ability to adapt to this," Mr. Rosenthal said.

The New York Times

To some extent, the World Bank's limited ability to change governments is built into the institution.

The New York Times - Arts

Regulators have limited ability to identify such trusts and foundations and monitor them.

The New York Times

They cautioned, however, that they had a limited ability to be certain of that.

The New York Times

No cricketer can ever have squeezed more out of limited ability than Collingwood.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "limited ability", be specific about the area where the limitation exists to provide clarity and context. For example, instead of saying "He has limited ability", specify "He has a limited ability to speak publicly".

Common error

Avoid using "limited ability" without providing context or details. Saying someone has a "limited ability" without specifying what they are limited in can be vague and unhelpful. Always clarify the specific skill or area where the limitation is present.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "limited ability" primarily functions as a pre-modifier to a noun, describing the extent or degree of the ability. It indicates a restriction or constraint on the capacity or skill being referred to. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

34%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "limited ability" is a commonly used and grammatically correct way to express a constraint on someone or something's capacity or skill. Ludwig AI confirms this, and offers examples from diverse sources. Usage analysis reveals its prevalence across News & Media, Science and Academia. When using this phrase, it's best to be specific about the area of limitation to avoid vagueness. Consider alternatives such as "constrained capability" or "restricted skill set" depending on the intended nuance. By providing context and clarity, you can effectively communicate the nature and scope of the limitation you're describing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

constrained capability

Indicates a restriction or imposition on one's capacity or power to do something.

restricted skill set

Highlights that the range of abilities and proficiencies is smaller than required.

finite capacity

Emphasizes that the maximum amount that something can contain or accomplish is limited.

narrow skillset

Focuses on a specific set of skills that are few or restricted in their application.

modest competence

Suggests a basic or adequate level of ability, but not exceeding or outstanding.

reduced potential

Implies a decreased capability for future development or success.

inadequate proficiency

Points to a lack of sufficient skill or expertise.

deficient aptitude

Highlights a natural lack of ability to do something.

partial competence

Indicates that one part of ability is present, but other parts are not.

basic mastery

Implies a fundamental level of skill, typically sufficient for simple tasks but not complex ones.

FAQs

How can I use "limited ability" in a sentence?

You can use "limited ability" to describe a restriction in someone's skill or potential. For example, "Due to the injury, she has a limited ability to participate in sports", or "The old software has a limited ability to handle large datasets".

What can I say instead of "limited ability"?

You can use alternatives like "constrained capability", "restricted skill set", or "finite capacity" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "limited ability" or "unlimited ability"?

"Limited ability" is used to describe a restriction or constraint in capability, while "unrestricted ability" implies no such limitations exist. The correct choice depends entirely on the intended meaning.

What's the difference between "limited ability" and "lack of skill"?

"Limited ability" suggests some capacity exists but is not fully developed or effective. "Lack of skill" implies a complete absence of the necessary skills. The choice depends on whether some degree of competence, however small, is present.