that they are able

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that they are able" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a group that is capable of doing something. For example: "I'm confident that they are able to complete the task on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Are you finding that they are able to deliver?

Forbes

Not that they are able to do so.

The New York Times

I think that they are able to play together.

The Guardian - Sport

Our experimental outcomes demonstrate that they are able to induce oxidative damage to liposome membranes.

Carbon

"Or maybe the fact that they are able to live independently means that they are able to manage stress better than the average person," he said.

The New York Times - Science

All enrolled students should confirm immediately that they are able to access and view the website.

Stanford University

That's the surprising thing to me — that they are able to manage that.

The New Yorker

The economic boom ensures that they are able to find jobs.

The Economist

"People show off that they are able to afford this fabulously expensive drug," said Dr Thomas.

Independent

But that they are able to do something like this, that is what they found impressive".

The New York Times

"It is our job to make sure that they are able to work that out.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "that they are able", ensure the sentence clearly indicates what "they" refers to, avoiding ambiguity. For instance, specify the group or individuals being discussed before stating their capability.

Common error

Be mindful of redundant phrasing. While grammatically correct, phrases like "they are able to be able to" are repetitive. Rephrase to something more concise, such as "they can" or "they are equipped".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that they are able" functions as a clause introducing a statement of capability or possibility. It specifies what a group is capable of doing. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

7%

Encyclopedias

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "that they are able" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to indicate capability or potential. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it commonly appears in news, scientific, and academic writing. When using the phrase, ensure clear reference to the subject and avoid redundancy. Alternatives like "they can" or "they are capable of" may provide conciseness. This phrase is generally suitable for neutral to formal registers, with the formality level often dictated by surrounding vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they can

A more concise and direct way of expressing ability.

they have the ability to

Replaces "are able" with "have the ability", focusing on possession of a skill.

they are capable of

Uses "capable" instead of "able", highlighting inherent capacity.

they are in a position to

Indicates that circumstances allow them to do something.

they are empowered to

Suggests that they have been given the authority or power to act.

they are qualified to

Highlights that they possess the necessary qualifications or skills.

they are permitted to

Focuses on permission rather than ability.

they are equipped to

Focuses on having the necessary resources or tools.

it is within their power to

Emphasizes the extent of their control or influence.

they are authorized to

Similar to "permitted", but often implies a more formal authorization.

FAQs

How can I use "that they are able" in a sentence?

The phrase "that they are able" introduces a clause specifying someone's capability. For example, "The study demonstrates that they are able to adapt to changing conditions."

What are some alternatives to "that they are able"?

Alternatives include "they can", "they are capable of", or "they have the ability to" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it always necessary to include "that" before "they are able"?

The inclusion of "that" is often optional but can improve clarity, especially in more formal writing. Omitting "that" is common in informal contexts but can sometimes create ambiguity.

What is the difference between "that they are able" and "that they were able"?

"That they are able" refers to a present capability, while "that they were able" refers to a past capability. The choice depends on whether the ability is current or historical.