that is capable of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that is capable of" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It can be used to describe something that has the ability or potential to do something. For example: - "This new technology is capable of revolutionizing the way we live." (meaning the technology has the ability to greatly change or improve our lives) - "We need to find a solution that is capable of solving this complex problem." (meaning we need to find a solution that has the potential to solve the problem) - "As a leader, it is important to have a team that is capable of adapting to change." (meaning having a team that has the ability to adapt to change) In each of these examples, the phrase "that is capable of" is used to describe something that possesses a certain quality or ability.

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

But the thing that is capable of changing is just it's it's outside appearance.

Harvard University

formerly had a forest cover or vegetative cover that is capable of restoration.

Cornell University

Any system that is capable of hosting a Web server should be capable of running Dienst.

Cornell University

(i) Properly install, maintain, and operate a flow indicator that is capable of taking periodic readings.

Cornell University

collecting area The total area of a telescope that is capable of capturing incoming radiation.

Harvard University

We have this citizenship in this country that is capable of so much.

The New Yorker

The party must, however unify behind a policy that is capable of winning the 2020 election.

The Guardian

"We want management that is capable of enunciating a growth strategy," Mr. Ingersol said.

The New York Times

"We still view it as an industry that is capable of solid growth," he said.

The New York Times

We have a moral duty to protect an AI that is capable of suffering.

The Guardian

It's the first composite material that is capable of healing itself.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "that is capable of", ensure the verb following "of" is in the gerund form (e.g., "that is capable of running", not "that is capable to run").

Common error

A frequent mistake is using the infinitive form of the verb instead of the gerund after "of". Always use the -ing form of the verb (gerund) after "of" when using the phrase "that is capable of". For example, use "that is capable of learning" instead of "that is capable to learn".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that is capable of" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun by describing its ability or potential to perform a specific action. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it correctly indicates an attribute or quality.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Academia

24%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

20%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that is capable of" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that functions as an adjective phrase, describing the potential or ability of a noun. As Ludwig AI confirms, it adheres to standard English grammar. It is most commonly found in news, academic, and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, remember to follow "of" with the gerund form of the verb. Consider alternatives like "that is able to" or "that can" depending on the level of formality required. Ensure your writing leverages this phrase correctly to convey potential and capability effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that has the ability to

Replaces "capable" with "has the ability", emphasizing the possession of a specific skill or power.

that is able to

A more concise alternative, replacing "capable" with "able" to denote the capacity to do something.

that can

A simpler, more direct way to express capability, suitable for informal contexts.

that is equipped to

Focuses on the preparedness or provision of resources to perform a task, suggesting readiness.

that is qualified to

Emphasizes the possession of necessary credentials or experience, suitable for formal contexts.

that is designed to

Highlights the intended functionality or purpose for which something was created.

that is in a position to

Emphasizes the state of being ready or favorably situated to take action.

that is prone to

Indicates a natural tendency or likelihood of something occurring, shifting the focus to disposition.

that is susceptible to

Highlights a vulnerability or openness to being affected by something, changing the context to exposure.

that lends itself to

Suggests a natural suitability or adaptability for a particular purpose, implying ease of use.

FAQs

How can I use "that is capable of" in a sentence?

Use "that is capable of" to describe something with a particular ability or potential. For example, "This technology is "that is capable of revolutionizing" the industry".

What are some alternatives to "that is capable of"?

You can use alternatives such as "that is able to", "that has the ability to", or "that can" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "that is capable of" and "that is able to"?

While similar, "that is capable of" often implies a higher degree of potential or skill, whereas "that is able to" simply indicates the possibility of performing an action.

When is it more appropriate to use "that is capable of" instead of "that can"?

Use "that is capable of" in more formal contexts or when you want to emphasize the potential or skill involved. "That can" is suitable for simpler, less formal situations.