well able

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "well able" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that someone has the capability or ability to do something. For example, "He was well able to complete the task quickly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But, he said, they are well able to grasp the idea of mental, physical, spiritual and emotional wellness.

The New York Times

Financially, they are well able to pay for this one.

The New York Times

Well, able to make people laugh, that is.

The Guardian

He was, however, well able to accept mockery.

The Guardian

Sastre, Soler and Mayo should be well able for it.

The Guardian - Sport

Sometimes he was equally well able to keep them.

The New York Times - Arts

Mr. Castelli was well able to spot them.

The New York Times - Arts

He was well able to bend over and the rest of it.

The New Yorker

(Given the vast sums they make, they are well able to afford such a rise).

The New Yorker

But Disney looks well able to absorb the failure of the film.

The Guardian - Film

These actors have proven themselves well able to tackle a more thorough and challenging directorial approach.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "well able" when you want to emphasize not just ability but also a degree of confidence or readiness to perform a task effectively. For example, "The team is well able to handle the increased workload."

Common error

While "well able" is grammatically correct, it can sound slightly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "capable" or "able" in informal settings to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

Adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun. The phrase "well able" typically functions as an adjective phrase, describing the subject's capability or readiness to perform an action. It emphasizes a strong ability or competence. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage based on numerous real-world examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "well able" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to indicate a strong degree of capability and readiness. As Ludwig AI states, it's a correct and usable phrase in written English. While it leans towards the formal side, it finds use in various contexts, including news, science, and business. Alternatives such as "fully capable" and "highly competent" offer similar meanings, but the choice depends on the specific nuance you aim to convey. When aiming for a less formal tone, "able" or "capable" are frequently suitable substitutes. The key is to ensure the chosen phrase aptly reflects the subject's competence and preparedness. As observed from the data, "well able" frequently appears in news and media sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fully capable

Emphasizes complete competence, implying a high degree of skill.

highly competent

Stresses a superior level of ability and proficiency.

eminently qualified

Suggests the person or thing meets all necessary criteria and possesses ample experience.

thoroughly equipped

Focuses on having all the necessary tools, resources, or skills to perform a task.

perfectly positioned

Highlights an advantageous situation or preparation for a specific purpose.

suitably skilled

Indicates an appropriate level of skill for a particular task or role.

adept

A concise term emphasizing skill and dexterity.

proficient

Implies competence and skill gained through practice and experience.

skilled

A general term indicating competence in a specific area.

up to the task

Suggests readiness and capability to handle a specific challenge.

FAQs

How can I use "well able" in a sentence?

Use "well able" to indicate that someone or something is not only capable but also in a good position or state to perform a task. For instance, "The company is "well able" to meet the increased demand".

What are some alternatives to "well able"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "fully capable", "highly competent", or "eminently qualified". The best choice will depend on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "well able" formal or informal?

"Well able" leans towards the formal side but is acceptable in various contexts. In very casual settings, simpler terms like "able" or "capable" might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "able" and "well able"?

"Well able" implies a higher degree of readiness or suitability compared to simply being "able". It suggests that someone is not just capable but also prepared and in a good state to succeed.