very capable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "very capable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that has a high level of ability or competence in a particular area. Example: "She is very capable of handling complex projects and leading her team effectively."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"He was very capable.

The New York Times

She is very capable.

Independent

Right, a very capable woman.

The New Yorker

Our system is very capable".

The New Yorker

I think it's very capable.

The New York Times

Sarah sounds very capable".

The New York Times

She's very capable.

The New York Times

Mr. Tsarnaev: They were very capable.

The New York Times

He's very capable of making plays".

The New York Times - Sports

I think people are very capable".

The New York Times

They are both very capable diplomats.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "very capable" to clearly and directly express a high level of competence or ability. It's suitable for various contexts, from describing people to systems or tools. Emphasize the specific area of capability to provide more context and impact. For instance, instead of saying "She's very capable", specify "She's very capable in project management".

Common error

Avoid using "very capable" as a generic compliment without specifying the context or skill. Overusing "very" can also weaken the impact. Instead, replace it with stronger synonyms like "highly skilled" or "extremely competent" if the situation warrants a more impactful description.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "very capable" primarily functions as a descriptive adjective phrase. It modifies a noun, indicating that the noun possesses a high degree of ability or competence. Ludwig examples confirm its use in describing individuals, teams, systems, and tools.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

96%

Academia

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "very capable" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adjective phrase that effectively communicates a high level of competence. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and wide applicability across various contexts. While versatile, it's best practice to use it with specific context to maximize its impact. Synonyms such as "highly competent" or "extremely skilled" can offer alternative nuances. The phrase is most commonly found in News & Media, maintaining a neutral register suitable for diverse audiences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

highly competent

Emphasizes the possession of necessary skills and knowledge.

extremely skilled

Highlights the advanced level of expertise.

proficient

Focuses on the adeptness and mastery of a particular skill.

adept

Implies a natural talent or quickness in learning.

accomplished

Suggests a track record of successful achievements.

qualified

Indicates having the formal certifications or training.

able

A more general term suggesting basic capacity.

efficient

Focuses on the ability to perform tasks effectively and without waste.

effective

Highlights the ability to produce the desired result.

resourceful

Emphasizes the ability to find clever ways to overcome difficulties.

FAQs

How can I use "very capable" in a sentence?

You can use "very capable" to describe a person, team, system, or tool that has a high level of skill or competence. For example, "Our team is "very capable" of handling complex projects", or "This software is "very capable" of processing large datasets".

What are some alternatives to "very capable"?

Alternatives include "highly competent", "extremely skilled", "proficient", and "adept". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "very capable" or "highly capable"?

Both "very capable" and "highly capable" are acceptable, but "highly capable" often sounds more formal and professional. The choice depends on the context and the desired tone. For general use, "very capable" is perfectly suitable.

What's the difference between "capable" and "very capable"?

"Capable" means having the ability or potential to do something, while "very capable" indicates a significantly higher degree of ability or competence. Using "very" intensifies the level of skill being described.