the ability to navigate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the ability to navigate" is correct and usable in written English.
It typically implies the ability to find one's way to a destination, either physically or metaphorically. For example, "She had the ability to navigate the treacherous political landscape and come out unscathed."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They have the ability to navigate incredibly diverse social environments.

The New York Times

The ability to navigate in a complex environment is crucial for both animals and robots.

Robotics and Autonomous Systems

"The ability to navigate was kind of limited," said Lee Person, a retired NASA research pilot.

The New York Times

No longer is the ability to navigate internal bureaucracies and pay dues the most valued skill.

The Economist

But how do we practice resilience, the ability to navigate stress and adversity in a healthy way?

University of California, Berkeley

The first theme is cooperative motion, including the ability to navigate and manipulate among people in crowded and cluttered environments.

Cornell University

The ability to navigate the space was limited by the controls, and how the creators had designed the space.

University of California, Berkeley

It's the ability to navigate life's inevitable bumps and still be happy and healthy and stay on track.

Harvard University

The researchers found that drinking champagne improved spatial memory – the ability to navigate to wherever you want to go (for example, getting home after the pub).

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The machines are valued for their utilitarian advantages — economical cost, high fuel efficiency, and the ability to navigate heavy traffic and bad roads.

The New Yorker

This is especially true for museums and galleries, where visitor experience and visitor satisfaction ratings are often directly affected by the ability to navigate successfully around the space.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the ability to navigate", specify the context or environment to provide clarity. For example, "the ability to navigate complex financial markets" is more informative than simply "the ability to navigate."

Common error

Avoid using "the ability to navigate" as a generic substitute for competence or skill. Ensure the context genuinely involves a process of finding a path or direction, rather than a general capacity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the ability to navigate" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig shows that it describes a general capability or competence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Academia

35%

Science

28%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the ability to navigate" is a versatile phrase used to describe the capacity to find one's way or manage complex situations. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. Predominantly found in News & Media, Academia, and Science, it maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse audiences. When using this phrase, specifying the context enhances clarity, and avoiding overuse in abstract contexts is recommended. Alternatives like "capacity to steer" or "competence to guide" can add nuance depending on the situation. Overall, understanding these aspects ensures effective and precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the capacity to steer

Focuses on the act of steering or directing a course.

the competence to guide

Highlights the proficiency in leading or directing others.

the aptitude for maneuvering

Emphasizes skill in overcoming obstacles or difficulties.

the wherewithal to mediate

Implies having the necessary resources or skills to resolve conflicts or disputes.

the facility for directing

Suggests ease and skill in managing or controlling a process.

the capability to find your way

Emphasizes the aspect of finding a path, whether literal or figurative.

the wherewithal to find a path

Emphasizes the necessary resources to find a solution.

the talent to find your bearings

Focuses on the innate ability to understand one's position or situation.

the wherewithal to chart a course

Implies having what is needed to set a direction or plan.

the ability to orient oneself

Specifically refers to the capacity to understand one's position relative to the surroundings.

FAQs

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

You can use "the ability to navigate" to describe the capacity to find a way through complex situations, systems, or environments. For example, "Her success was due to her "ability to navigate" corporate bureaucracy efficiently."

What are some alternatives to "the ability to navigate"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "capacity to steer", "competence to guide", or "aptitude for maneuvering".

Which is correct: "the ability to navigate" or "the ability of navigation"?

"The ability to navigate" is the correct and more common phrasing. "The ability of navigation" is grammatically awkward and less frequently used.

What's the difference between "the ability to navigate" and "the skill of navigation"?

While similar, "the ability to navigate" emphasizes the general capacity, while "the skill of navigation" highlights the expertise or proficiency in the process. The former is broader, the latter is more specific and implies acquired expertise.