she has the ability

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'she has the ability' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that someone has capability, talent, or skills. For example, "My daughter is a talented musician - she has the ability to play any instrument."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"She has the ability to do it.

The New York Times - Sports

"She has the ability.

The New York Times - Magazine

"She has the ability to live with many unknowns.

The New York Times

"She has the ability to do much better".

The New York Times - Sports

She has the ability to connect with people personally.

The Guardian

"She has the ability to attract other students by example.

The New York Times

She has the ability to anticipate plays, and she's really the backbone of this defense".

The New York Times

She has the ability to process many points of view and to mediate between different factions.

The New York Times

"She has the ability to translate experiences into art that communicates to the world at large".

The New York Times

"She has the ability to give the most astute and penetrating notes I've ever heard".

The New York Times

She has the ability to show unrestrained joy and still look cool.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "she has the ability" to highlight potential rather than just current skill.

Common error

Avoid using "she has the ability" without specifying what the ability is. Be specific about the skill or capability being referenced to provide clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "she has the ability" functions as a means of attributing a capacity, skill, or potential to a female subject. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its use in various contexts to express competence and capability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "she has the ability" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to denote a female subject's capacity, skill, or potential. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly in news and media, where it serves to inform, emphasize, or praise someone's capabilities. While generally neutral in tone, its formality can shift based on the context. For alternatives, consider using "she is capable" or "she is able" to express similar ideas with slightly different nuances. When using the phrase, ensure specificity to maximize its impact and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

She is capable

Uses a direct adjective to describe capability instead of a noun phrase.

She is able

Expresses ability using a simpler, more direct adjective.

She possesses the skill

Focuses specifically on the skill aspect of ability.

She is competent

Highlights the competence and proficiency of the subject.

She is equipped

Emphasizes preparedness and having what is necessary.

She is proficient

Highlights expertise in a specific area.

She is talented

Focuses on natural aptitude and giftedness.

She is gifted

Similar to 'talented', but often implies a higher degree of innate ability.

She has what it takes

An idiomatic way of saying she has the necessary qualities.

She is cut out for it

Expresses a natural suitability or disposition for something.

FAQs

How can I use "she has the ability" in a sentence?

Use "she has the ability" to highlight someone's capacity or potential to do something, such as "She has the ability to learn quickly" or "She has the ability to inspire others".

What can I say instead of "she has the ability"?

You can use alternatives like "she is capable", "she is able", or "she possesses the skill" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "she has the ability" or "she has the capability"?

Both "she has the ability" and "she has the capability" are correct and can be used interchangeably. The choice often depends on stylistic preference.

What's the difference between "she has the ability" and "she has the potential"?

"She has the ability" refers to a current capacity or skill, whereas "she has the potential" implies a future possibility or undeveloped skill. "She has the ability to lead" suggests she can already lead, while "she has the potential to lead" suggests she could lead well in the future.