we are able to do

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are able to do" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express capability or possibility regarding an action or task. Example: "With the new software update, we are able to do more complex calculations in less time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I am confident we are able to do that".

The Guardian

"We're confident we've done what we are able to do".

The New York Times - Sports

"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

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

The New York Times - Sports

"We are able to do that same amount in about 30 seconds".

The New York Times

But we've reached the very limits of what we are able to do".

The New Yorker

"On the other hand, in computers we are able to do very, very subtle things.

The New York Times

If we are able to do something, we feel we should do it.

The Guardian - Opinion

"I think we're showing what we are able to do," Maradona said afterwards.

The Guardian - Sport

And the conference space is one of those places where we are able to do both.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we are able to do" to emphasize capability achieved through effort or resources, instead of simply stating "we can".

Common error

While grammatically correct, "we are able to do" can sometimes sound unnecessarily formal. Consider using the simpler "we can" unless you want to specifically emphasize a learned or acquired ability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are able to do" functions as a statement of capability or possibility. As Ludwig AI highlights, it expresses the capacity to perform an action, emphasizing that the ability exists. This aligns with the numerous examples provided, showcasing its use in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Academia

21%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Science

6%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we are able to do" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase that expresses capability or possibility. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid and versatile expression suitable for various contexts. While it is often interchangeable with the simpler "we can", the longer phrase emphasizes the existing capacity or resources that make the action possible. The phrase sees frequent usage in news, academic, and business settings, but can come across as overly formal in casual conversation. Understanding these nuances enables effective communication in both writing and speech.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we can do

This is a more concise and direct way of expressing the same capability.

we are capable of doing

Stresses the competence or skill to accomplish something.

we have the capacity to do

Emphasizes having the inherent ability or power to perform an action.

we are in a position to do

Highlights the favorable circumstances that allow the action.

we are free to do

Highlights the absence of restrictions or constraints.

it is within our power to do

Indicates that the action is possible and under our control.

we are equipped to do

Emphasizes having the necessary resources or tools.

we are permitted to do

Focuses on having authorization or consent to perform an action.

we are authorized to do

Similar to 'permitted', focusing on official approval.

we are entitled to do

Highlights having a right or legitimate claim to perform an action.

FAQs

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

Use "we can" for general abilities or possibilities. Use "we are able to do" when you want to emphasize the specific capacity, skill, or resources that enable the action. The phrase "we can" is often preferred for brevity and directness in many contexts.

What are some alternatives to "we are able to do" that sound less formal?

Consider using phrases like "we can", "we can manage to", or "we know how to" for a less formal tone. The best alternative depends on the specific context.

Is "we are able to do" always grammatically correct?

Yes, the phrase "we are able to do" is grammatically correct. However, its stylistic appropriateness depends on the context. It is more formal than alternatives like "we can".

How can I emphasize the effort or resources involved when using "we are able to do"?

To emphasize the effort or resources, follow "we are able to do" with a phrase that clarifies the enabling factors. For example, "We are able to do this because of our new equipment" or "We are able to do it with your support."