showing an ability

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "showing an ability" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing someone demonstrating a particular skill or talent in a specific context. Example: "The athlete is showing an ability to adapt quickly to new strategies during the game."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

Any could stand out by showing an ability to finish in pass rushing drills and versatility in team drills.

The New York Times

Three years into a five-year term, Mr. Zardari is showing an ability to survive politically despite repeated predictions of his government's collapse.

The New York Times

Ms. McMahon, showing an ability to withstand issues that have hurt Republicans elsewhere, said it was absurd for Mr. Murphy to attack her on women's issues.

The New York Times

They may be bullish, expecting the stock to be up, but they do not seem to be showing an ability to assess risk, even if it is their own personal risk.

The New York Times

DESPITE lashings from critics, Mr. Williams has been resilient over the years, showing an ability to bounce fairly effortlessly from meaty cameo to star turn to juicy character role.

The New York Times

Ms. Collette, nominated for an Oscar as the single mother in "The Sixth Sense," makes a most creditable Broadway debut as Queenie, showing an ability to convey savage mood swings through song and dance, and if she evokes the era of Marilyn Monroe more than that of Louise Brooks, she still looks luscious.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 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

He has also shown an ability to raise significant amounts of money.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "showing an ability" to highlight a specific instance where someone demonstrates a skill, rather than to describe general competence. For example, "She is showing an ability to learn new languages quickly."

Common error

Avoid using "showing an ability" to describe inherent or long-standing qualities. Instead, use it to describe a skill that is actively being demonstrated. For instance, instead of saying "He is showing an ability to be kind" (implying he's always kind), specify a situation: "He is showing an ability to empathize with others during difficult conversations."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "showing an ability" functions as a descriptive phrase, often acting as part of a predicate adjective modifying a noun or pronoun. Ludwig examples confirm its use in describing demonstrated skills or capabilities.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "showing an ability" is a grammatically correct and commonly used way to describe someone demonstrating a particular skill or talent, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It functions descriptively, highlighting competence in various contexts, especially within News & Media. While generally neutral, its formality can be adjusted with alternatives like exhibiting competence for more formal settings. Remember to use it to describe skills actively being demonstrated, rather than inherent qualities, to avoid common errors. The phrase is versatile and effective for emphasizing demonstrated capabilities across a range of situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

showing competence

A more concise alternative to the original phrase.

demonstrating a capacity

Emphasizes the potential or capability shown.

showing aptitude

Highlight a natural inclination or talent.

exhibiting skill

Focuses on the demonstrated skill.

exhibiting competence

Focuses on the demonstrated skill level.

displaying capability

Highlights the demonstrated potential to perform.

displaying aptitude

Highlights a natural inclination or talent.

revealing proficiency

Stresses expertise in a particular area.

revealing talent

Stresses natural ability and gifts.

demonstrating prowess

Indicates exceptional skill or talent.

FAQs

How can I use "showing an ability" in a sentence?

Use "showing an ability" to describe someone demonstrating a particular skill or talent in a specific context. For example: "The student is showing an ability to grasp complex concepts quickly."

What can I say instead of "showing an ability"?

You can use alternatives like "demonstrating a capacity", "exhibiting competence", or "displaying aptitude" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "showing an ability" or "demonstrating an ability"?

Both "showing an ability" and "demonstrating an ability" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. The choice depends on the desired tone and context. "Demonstrating an ability" might sound slightly more formal.

What is the difference between "showing an ability" and "having an ability"?

"Showing an ability" refers to the act of demonstrating a skill or talent. "Having an ability" refers to possessing a skill or talent, whether or not it is currently being demonstrated. For example, someone might have an ability to play the piano but is not currently "showing an ability" to do so.