she was capable of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "she was capable of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express someone's ability or potential to do something. Example: "She was capable of achieving great things if she put her mind to it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

She was capable of warmth and joy.

The New York Times - Magazine

She was capable of surreal distinctions.

The New York Times - Books

"She was capable of standing up.

The Guardian

"No – she knew she was capable of those times.

The Guardian - Sport

At 15, she said, she was capable of being possessed.

The New York Times

I hadn't known she was capable of such emotional honesty.

The New York Times - Magazine

Still, there was a sense that she was capable of more.

The New Yorker

"She was capable of great extension, great energy," Mr. Giudici told The Associated Press in Italy.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

She is capable of so much more.

The New York Times - Books

"Also, she is capable of completely changing her image.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Yet she is capable of amending her outlook.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "she was capable of" to highlight a specific skill, talent, or potential a subject possesses. This phrase is effective in emphasizing a person's strengths or possibilities, like in the sentence: She was capable of handling any challenge.

Common error

Avoid using "she was capable of" when describing basic or expected actions. Reserve this phrase for instances where the ability is noteworthy or surpasses typical expectations, as in She was capable of solving problems others couldn't understand.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "she was capable of" functions as a descriptive phrase, indicating a subject's potential or ability. Ludwig examples show its application across diverse contexts, affirming its grammatical correctness and versatility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Science

14%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "she was capable of" is a versatile phrase used to describe someone's abilities, potential, or skills. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and frequently used in diverse contexts, predominantly in News & Media. While its register is generally neutral, it is suitable for both formal and informal settings. When using this phrase, ensure it highlights a specific or noteworthy skill, avoiding its application to basic or expected actions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

she had the ability to

Focuses directly on the possession of an ability.

she was able to

A more straightforward way of expressing capability.

she possessed the skill to

Emphasizes a learned or developed skill.

she could

A simple way of saying "she was capable of", indicating possibility and ability.

she was equipped to

Highlights preparation and readiness for something.

she had it in her to

Suggests an inherent capacity or potential.

she was equal to

Indicates being up to a certain task or challenge.

she was up to

A more casual way of saying someone is capable.

she was suited to

Implies that someone's personality, qualities or circumstances make them qualified for a certain activity or role.

she was predisposed to

Suggests a natural inclination or tendency towards something.

FAQs

How can I use "she was capable of" in a sentence?

Use "she was capable of" to describe someone's ability, potential, or skill. For example, "She was capable of great empathy" or "She was capable of leading the team".

What are some alternatives to "she was capable of"?

You can use alternatives like "she had the ability to", "she was able to", or "she could" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "she was capable of" or "she could"?

"She was capable of" is more formal and emphasizes a specific ability or potential. "She could" is more general and suggests possibility or permission. The best choice depends on the context and desired level of formality.

What does it mean to say someone "was capable of" something?

Saying someone "was capable of" something means they had the ability, skill, or potential to do it. It suggests they possessed the necessary qualities or resources to achieve a particular outcome.