undermine the ability

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "undermine the ability" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing actions or situations that weaken or damage someone's or something's capacity to perform or function effectively. Example: "The constant criticism from her peers began to undermine her ability to contribute confidently in meetings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"Some in Washington are hoping to undermine the ability of ordinary citizens to encrypt their data.

The Guardian - Tech

Will external review undermine the ability of health plans to steer patients to cost-effective care?

The New York Times

Failure to keep Europe's economies competitive could also undermine the ability to fund the welfare state.

The New York Times

Such doubts may undermine the ability of the review to galvanise the banks.

The Economist

The vulnerability that a worker experiences after being laid off can undermine the ability to find the next job.

The New York Times

The reason I didn't do it was because I actually thought it would undermine the ability to execute.

The New York Times

On a basic level, it would undermine the ability to assume and reject contracts under the Bankruptcy Code.

The New York Times

"All this will do is undermine the ability of legitimate marketers to stand up and say this is what we are doing".

The New York Times

They will have a devastating effect on the rights of ordinary people in this country and undermine the ability to challenge unlawful government actions".

The Guardian

So there is a double whammy in that some trusts pay people to undermine the ability of these procurement organisations to obtain the best deals.

The Guardian

Democrats also had concerns about language on labeling restrictions that could undermine the ability of American pharmacies and distributors to import and sell the drugs.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "undermine the ability", consider the specific aspect of ability being affected. Be precise about what capacity is being weakened and the context in which it occurs.

Common error

Avoid using "undermine the ability" in overly general statements without specifying what or whose ability is being undermined. Always provide clear context to enhance clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "undermine the ability" functions as a verb phrase where "undermine" acts as a transitive verb taking "the ability" as its direct object. It indicates an action that weakens or diminishes a capability. Ludwig AI shows several examples where this phrase is used to describe a negative impact on various capacities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

39%

Formal & Business

19%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "undermine the ability" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe actions or situations that weaken or diminish a capacity. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent usage across various contexts, including news, science, and formal business settings. While versatile, it's important to provide clear context about what ability is being affected to avoid vagueness. Consider alternatives like "weaken the capacity" or "diminish the capability" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

weaken the capacity

Focuses on reducing the power or strength of someone's capacity.

diminish the capability

Emphasizes reducing the level of skill or competence.

impair the competence

Highlights the damage or weakening of someone's competence.

erode the effectiveness

Focuses on gradually reducing the effectiveness over time.

jeopardize the potential

Highlights the risk of damaging or ruining the potential.

hamper the proficiency

Stresses the obstruction or hindering of someone's proficiency.

compromise the aptitude

Emphasizes the compromising or weakening of someone's natural aptitude.

reduce the effectiveness

A more direct way of saying something is less effective.

cripple the capacity

Emphasizes a severe reduction or crippling of ability.

attenuate the power

Highlights a reduction in force, effect, or value of a power.

FAQs

How can I use "undermine the ability" in a sentence?

You can use "undermine the ability" to describe actions or situations that weaken someone's capacity. For example, "Constant criticism can "undermine the ability" to perform confidently."

What are some alternatives to saying "undermine the ability"?

Alternatives include phrases like "weaken the capacity", "diminish the capability", or "impair the competence", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "undermine the ability" or "damage the ability"?

"Undermine the ability" implies a gradual weakening, while "damage the ability" suggests a more direct and immediate harm. The best choice depends on the specific situation you are describing.

What is the difference between "hinder the ability" and "undermine the ability"?

"Hinder the ability" suggests creating obstacles that make something more difficult, whereas ""undermine the ability"" implies weakening an existing capacity.