show an ability

USAGE SUMMARY

"Show an ability" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it whenever you want to express the idea of demonstrating or displaying a particular skill. For example: "My boss wants me to show an ability to lead a team effectively."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

In particular, humans show an ability to effectively partition the feature set, and learn what are called cross-cutting categories.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

We want graduates to show an ability to work with others, networking skills, business development acumen and plain common sense.

The Guardian

Officials of the Air Transportation Stabilization Board, which administers the program, have said they want to see stringent business plans that show an ability to repay loans.

The New York Times

Syndicators look for hosts who are entertaining, have a point of view and, as Mr. Anderson put it, show an ability to "connect with an audience".

The New York Times

Asked if he wanted a referendum on his becoming king, he said: "We must allow some breathing space and show an ability to discuss this without overbearing pressure.

The New York Times

Those kinds of ideas show an ability to bring people together that we haven't seen in national politics for a while.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

They showed an ability to empathise".

Independent

No one has shown an ability to get hot.

The New York Times

The group has shown an ability to revive itself.

The Economist

But Mr. Gates has shown an ability to manage the Pentagon even with a small inner circle.

The New York Times

Therefore, the Galapagos Penguin shows an ability to molt completely before beginning breeding (Boersma 1978).

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "show an ability", follow it with a specific action or skill to provide context. For example: "Show an ability to solve complex problems effectively."

Common error

Avoid using "show an ability" without specifying the context or skill being demonstrated. Vague statements like "He needs to show an ability" lack impact. Instead, be specific: "He needs to show an ability to manage a budget responsibly."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "show an ability" functions as a verb phrase used to describe the action of demonstrating or displaying a particular skill, talent, or competence. The structure commonly indicates that someone or something is making their capabilities apparent. Ludwig AI confirms that the expression is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "show an ability" is a grammatically sound and useful expression for indicating the demonstration of a particular skill or competence. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and suitable for various writing contexts. While it leans toward a neutral to professional register, as it appears in news media, science, and academic settings, it's important to follow it with a specific action or skill to provide context and avoid overgeneralization. Alternatives like "demonstrate a capacity" or "exhibit competence" can be used for a more formal tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

demonstrate a capacity

Emphasizes the potential to perform a task, shifting from outward display to inherent capability.

exhibit competence

Highlights the quality of being adequately or well qualified, focusing on proven skill.

display proficiency

Focuses on a high degree of skill or expertise, suggesting a mastery level performance.

manifest a talent

Highlights a natural aptitude or skill, implying an innate quality being revealed.

reveal a capability

Similar to 'demonstrate a capacity', but focuses on uncovering a pre-existing ability.

establish expertise

Focuses on creating credibility and recognition as a knowledgeable and skilled individual.

prove adeptness

Highlights skill or quickness in performance, emphasizing practical competence.

evidence a knack

Suggests a natural or acquired skill, often implying ease and efficiency in its application.

unveil a strength

Highlights discovering a specific area of effectiveness or power, often previously unknown.

illustrate mastery

Show a complete command of a subject or skill, demonstrating a very high level of expertise.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "show an ability" to sound more formal?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "demonstrate a capacity", "exhibit competence", or "display proficiency". These alternatives often convey a more professional or academic tone.

What's a simpler way to say "show an ability"?

If you want a simpler alternative, you could use phrases like "prove skill", "demonstrate skill", or "display talent". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to use "show an ability" or "demonstrate an ability"?

Both "show an ability" and "demonstrate an ability" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. "Demonstrate" is generally considered more formal, while "show" is more common in everyday language.

How do I use "show an ability" correctly in a sentence?

Ensure that you clearly specify what ability is being shown. For example, instead of saying "They need to show an ability", say "They need to "show an ability" to work effectively under pressure".