that enable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that enable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that provides the means or ability to do something. Example: "The new software features tools that enable users to streamline their workflow and increase productivity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His costume contains sensors that enable live performance capture.

The Guardian

Sterling develops systems that enable businesses to exchange information electronically.

The New York Times

The two mirror each other, and the norms and assumptions that enable rapists are the same ones that enable rape threats online.

The Guardian - Opinion

Lenders have agreements with brokers that enable them to demand compensation for bad loans.

The New York Times

Asia needs to build up innovative markets that enable technology transfer.

The Guardian - Opinion

The reason is that AIDS attacks exactly those capacities that enable people to resist famine.

The New York Times

It is the favourable conditions that enable China's huge trade surplus that particularly bothered him.

The Guardian - Opinion

"These zones require the shredding of treaties that enable peoples to live on their land.

The Guardian - Books

It lets you make unlikely connections that enable you to solve wickedly hard problems.

The New York Times

To provide reproducible code that enable others to generate similar maps at Output Area level 7.

The Guardian

We will have a series of products that enable us to make that transition".

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "that enable" to clearly indicate the means by which something is made possible or achievable, ensuring the connection between the subject and its effect is direct and easily understood.

Common error

Avoid using "that enable" when describing indirect or secondary effects. Ensure the enabling factor directly leads to the stated outcome, rather than merely contributing to it among other factors.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that enable" functions as a relative clause, modifying a noun and specifying its capacity to facilitate or make something possible. It introduces a clause that describes the means by which an action or outcome is achieved. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage is correct and common.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "that enable" is a grammatically sound and highly versatile relative clause used to specify the means by which something becomes possible. As Ludwig AI highlights, its frequency across diverse contexts like news, science, and business underscores its broad applicability. When writing, use "that enable" to clarify the direct causal link between an action/subject and its outcome. Be mindful to avoid extending this phrase to secondary or indirect effects to maintain precision. Alternatives such as "that facilitate", "that permit", and "that allow for" can provide subtle shifts in meaning, allowing for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that facilitate

Changes the verb to 'facilitate', implying a smoother or easier process.

that permit

Uses 'permit' to suggest authorization or allowance.

that allow for

Adds 'allow for' to emphasize the provision of opportunity or possibility.

that make possible

Replaces 'enable' with 'make possible', highlighting the creation of possibility.

that empower

Uses 'empower' to suggest giving someone authority or control.

that give rise to

Substitutes with 'give rise to', focusing on the origin or cause of something.

that pave the way for

Emphasizes preparation or creating conditions for future events.

that set the stage for

Similar to 'pave the way for', but focuses on creating a setting or scenario.

that unlock

Metaphorically uses 'unlock' to indicate access or release of potential.

that foster

Replaces 'enable' with 'foster', indicating encouragement and development.

FAQs

How can I use "that enable" in a sentence?

Use "that enable" to introduce a clause that specifies the means or methods by which something is made possible. For example, "We need policies "that enable people" to take their own adaptation in hand".

What are some alternatives to "that enable"?

You can use alternatives like "that facilitate", "that permit", or "that allow for" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "that enable" and "that allow"?

"That enable" implies providing the means or capability for something to happen, while "that allow" suggests granting permission or opportunity. The choice depends on whether you're emphasizing capability or permission.

Is it redundant to use "that enable" if the context already implies enablement?

While context can sometimes imply enablement, using "that enable" explicitly reinforces the causal relationship and ensures clarity. In most cases, it's not redundant but rather enhances understanding.