the ability to fly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the ability to fly" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing someone's or something's capacity or skill to fly, whether literally or metaphorically. Example: "Many birds possess the ability to fly, which helps them escape predators and find food."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Most birds possess the ability to fly.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The ability to fly would be fabulous.

The Guardian - Tech

Some lost, or never gained, the ability to fly.

The New York Times - Magazine

It was not just the ability to fly that the birds lacked.

The New York Times

It is possible that dinosaurs evolved these colors before they evolved the ability to fly.

The New York Times - Science

At that point, early birds had already developed feathers and the ability to fly.

The Washington Post

What is not completely clear, however, is why these birds lost the ability to fly.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Stanly (sic) Bird turns 16 and finds himself suddenly endowed with superpowers: the ability to fly, enhanced strength and telekinesis.

The Guardian - Books

In Zhong Gong's case these include the ability to fly, see the future and fast for weeks at a time.

The New York Times

The terrorists brought with them nothing but knives and the ability to fly a jumbo jet already in the air.

The New Yorker

She wouldn't pray for an unlimited supply of chocolate-covered pretzels or brawnier shoulders or the ability to fly.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the ability to fly" when referring to a specific instance or characteristic. For broader or more abstract contexts, consider alternatives like "flight capability".

Common error

While grammatically correct, consistently using "the ability to fly" in casual conversation can sound stilted. Opt for simpler phrasing like "can fly" or "flies" when appropriate to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the ability to fly" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

23%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Wiki

11%

Academia

6%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the ability to fly" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. It denotes the capacity for aerial movement, both literally and metaphorically. While suitable for various contexts, simpler phrasings might be preferable in very informal settings. Authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian frequently employ this phrase. Alternative expressions include "the power of flight" and "flight proficiency", depending on the desired nuance. The phrase functions as a subject or object and has the purpose of describing capabilities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the power of flight

Replaces 'ability' with 'power', emphasizing the strength or force behind flying.

capability to fly

Substitutes 'ability' with 'capability', indicating a potential or inherent capacity for flight.

capacity for flight

Uses 'capacity' instead of 'ability', focusing on the potential or maximum limit of flying.

skill of flying

Replaces 'ability' with 'skill', highlighting the proficiency or expertise in flying.

aptitude for flight

Uses 'aptitude' instead of 'ability', suggesting a natural talent or inclination towards flying.

aerial maneuverability

Focuses on the ability to move and control oneself in the air.

flight proficiency

Highlights the level of competence or skill in flying.

wings to soar

A more metaphorical expression emphasizing the freedom and elevation associated with flying.

airborne capacity

Focuses on the ability to be in the air and operate effectively.

being able to fly

Rephrases the concept as a state of being, emphasizing the condition of possessing flight.

FAQs

What does it mean to have "the ability to fly"?

Having "the ability to fly" means possessing the capacity, whether literal or metaphorical, to move through the air. It can refer to physical flight, like that of a bird, or a figurative sense of freedom and transcendence.

How can I use "the ability to fly" in a sentence?

You can use "the ability to fly" to describe someone or something that can move through the air, as in: "Birds are known for "the ability to fly"." It can also describe the capacity for innovation: "Her "the ability to fly" helped the company surpass the competition."

Which is correct, "the ability to fly" or "the ability of flying"?

"The ability to fly" is the correct and more common phrasing. "The ability of flying" is grammatically awkward. Opt for the former for clarity and conciseness.

What are some related concepts to "the ability to fly"?

Related concepts include "flight proficiency", "aerial maneuverability", and, metaphorically, the power to overcome obstacles or achieve great heights.