that we are able

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that we are able" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express capability or possibility in various contexts, often in formal or academic writing. Example: "We must ensure that we are able to meet the demands of our clients effectively."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

So that we are able to help people live well.

The Washington Post

I hope that we are able to make a mark".

The New York Times

We're confident that we are able to keep them cool".

The New York Times

"We want to tell the world that we are able to do it," she said.

The New York Times - Sports

It is a mark of civilisation that we are able to do this.

The Guardian

We pray to God that we are able to work again".

The Guardian

With the result that we are able to penetrate where we can never go.

The Guardian

"It is crucial," he said, "that we are able to pay bonuses based on performance".

The New York Times

"So from that standpoint, I think that's very important that we are able to do that".

The New York Times - Sports

"I want to believe that we are able to make most people happy".

The New York Times

He understands what makes us human is that we are able to express ourselves through culture".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for conciseness, consider using "that we can" instead of "that we are able", especially in informal contexts. However, "that we are able" maintains a more formal tone suitable for academic or professional writing.

Common error

Avoid using "that we are able" excessively in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "that we can" or other more direct expressions to maintain a natural and approachable tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that we are able" functions as a subordinate conjunction introducing a clause that specifies a condition, capability, or possibility. Ludwig AI indicates it is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

30%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

12%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "that we are able" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to convey capability or possibility. While Ludwig AI confirms its validity, it's essential to consider the context. It is more formal than its simpler counterpart "that we can". Usage patterns show its prevalence in news, scientific, and academic writing. When aiming for conciseness or informality, simpler alternatives are preferable. However, in formal settings, "that we are able" provides a tone of precision suitable for conveying complex ideas. The provided examples and related phrases offer a practical guide to effectively using this phrase in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that we can

This alternative is a more concise and commonly used substitute.

that we are capable of

This alternative stresses the inherent capability to perform something.

that we have the capacity to

This alternative emphasizes having the inherent ability.

that we are in a position to

This alternative focuses on having the right circumstances or resources.

that we are equipped to

This alternative highlights preparedness and having the necessary tools.

that we are enabled to

This alternative suggests being given the means or permission.

that we are empowered to

This alternative indicates having the authority or power to do something.

that we are authorized to

This alternative emphasizes formal permission or authorization.

that we gain the ability to

This alternative focuses on acquiring the capacity to do something.

that we are permitted to

This alternative signifies having been granted permission.

FAQs

What is a simpler alternative to "that we are able"?

A simpler and often more direct alternative is "that we can". It conveys the same meaning with fewer words and is suitable for most contexts.

When is it more appropriate to use "that we are able" instead of "that we can"?

"That we are able" is more appropriate in formal writing, such as academic papers or official reports, where a more precise and slightly elevated tone is desired. It can also be used for emphasis.

Is there a difference in meaning between "that we are able" and "that we can"?

While the core meaning is the same—expressing capability or possibility—"that we are able" carries a slightly more formal connotation. "That we can" is generally more versatile and commonly used in everyday language.

How can I rephrase "that we are able" to emphasize preparedness?

To emphasize preparedness, you could use phrases like "that we are equipped to" or "that we are prepared to". These alternatives highlight the readiness and resources available to perform a specific action.