obtain ability

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of the sentence "obtain ability" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to refer to being able to acquire a certain skill or ability. For example, "With hard work and dedication, I was able to obtain the ability to speak Spanish fluently."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Blue (1988) believed in instructing learners to obtain ability to do self-assessment.

Asian-Pacific Journal of Second and Foreign Language Education

Nevertheless, DNA collection with the use of buccal swabs has many advantages such as light weight postage, cost effective processing for long-term archiving, and easy obtain ability from widely dispersed participants, it is comfortable for the patient and tasteless.

European Journal of Epidemiology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Using new knowledge and obtaining abilities to implement a series of strategic business behaviors all need the help of continuous system innovation and cultural innovation to keep immigrant entrepreneurship going (Li et al. 2008).

The Journal of Chinese Sociology

But that does not mean Israel cannot look elsewhere to develop and obtain that ability.

The New York Times

Cancer cells have several ways to obtain the ability to proliferate and replicate rapidly.

Protein & Cell

As such, insurgent groups often go to great lengths to obtain the ability to shoot down enemy helicopters.

Vice

However, the officials argue that U.S. construction of a defense system could set off a destabilizing arms race among other nations in order to obtain the ability to overcome future U.S. defenses.

Los Angeles Times

It has been previously shown that glycosides also obtain the ability to inhibit Topoisomerase I.

Blood Cancer Journal

On the one hand, several mutant p53 obtain the ability to bind specific non-B DNA structure with high affinity.

Cell Death and Disease

Whether cells escaping from these stresses inherit or obtain resistance abilities is unknown.

Cell Death and Disease

What most worries American investigators is that the latest set of attacks believed coming from Unit 61398 focus not just on stealing information, but obtaining the ability to manipulate American critical infrastructure: the power grids and other utilities.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "obtain ability", specify the context or area in which the ability is being acquired to provide clarity and relevance. For instance, "obtain the ability to code" is more informative than simply "obtain ability".

Common error

While grammatically correct, "obtain ability" can sometimes sound redundant or overly formal. Consider using more concise alternatives like "develop skills" or "gain expertise" for a more natural tone, especially in less formal writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "obtain ability" functions as a verb phrase where "obtain" acts as the main verb indicating acquisition, and "ability" serves as the direct object, specifying what is being acquired. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is considered grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "obtain ability" is a grammatically correct way to describe the process of acquiring a skill or capacity. While considered acceptable in various contexts, it's relatively rare and may sometimes sound overly formal, as confirmed by Ludwig. According to Ludwig AI, it's advisable to specify the context in which the ability is being acquired for better clarity. Alternatives such as "develop skills" or "gain expertise" might be more concise and natural-sounding, especially in less formal settings. Predominantly found in scientific and news-related articles, the phrase serves to highlight the acquisition of a particular skill or competence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

acquire capability

Replaces "obtain" with "acquire" and "ability" with "capability", focusing on gaining a specific capacity.

gain proficiency

Highlights the achievement of a high level of skill, particularly through practice and training.

attain expertise

Highlights the attainment of specialized knowledge or skill through study and experience.

develop competence

Emphasizes growth and expertise in a particular area, using more formal vocabulary.

achieve mastery

Implies reaching a very high level of expertise and control in a particular area.

build capacity

Focuses on the gradual development and strengthening of a particular capability over time.

cultivate talent

Suggests nurturing and refining a natural aptitude, shifting the focus to innate potential.

procure skill

Emphasizes the act of acquiring a specific skill set, often through deliberate effort.

secure aptitude

Focuses on firmly establishing a natural talent or inclination for something.

foster aptitude

Suggests encouraging and supporting the development of a natural inclination or talent.

FAQs

What does "obtain ability" mean?

The phrase "obtain ability" means to acquire or gain the capacity or skill to do something. It implies the development or learning of a specific competence.

What are some alternatives to "obtain ability"?

You can use phrases like "acquire capability", "develop competence", or "gain proficiency" as alternatives to "obtain ability", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "gain ability" or "obtain ability"?

Both "gain ability" and "obtain ability" are correct, but "gain ability" often sounds more natural in contemporary English. "Obtain" can sometimes come across as more formal or deliberate.

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

You might say, "Through consistent practice, she was able to obtain the ability to play the piano beautifully" or "The training program helped him obtain the ability to manage complex projects effectively".