which enables

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "which enables" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to talk about an action that makes something possible or available. For example: This new technology, which enables faster communication, is revolutionizing the way we work.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Also new this year is the Mole Cam, which enables direct observation of mole activity.

The New York Times

Jacqui Keep is marketing manager at Powwownow, which enables flexible working through its technology.

The Guardian

Another is XStat from RevMedx, which enables paramedics to seal deep wounds in just five seconds.

The Guardian

"Governors need focused, easy-to-read briefing which enables them to grasp the key points quickly".

The Guardian

He also discovers a remote control, which enables him to tune into ballet videos.

The New York Times - Arts

If not, why is the provision there which enables the bowler to run him out?

The Guardian - Sport

That was one which enables purely economic thinking to have a disproportionate impact".

The Guardian

Homeworkhub provides an e-platform, which enables parents to better support their children with homework.

The Guardian

Strong technology increases traffic, which provides more information about users, which enables better aiming of ads.

The New York Times

We need a simplified system which enables people to be prescribed housing support quickly.

The Guardian

"There is no clear policy which enables the council to have a building retained".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "which enables", ensure the clause clearly and directly relates to the noun it modifies. This maintains clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid placing "which enables" too far from the noun it modifies. This can lead to confusion about what is actually being enabled. Keep the clause close to its subject.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "which enables" functions as a relative clause, providing additional information about the noun it modifies. It specifies the means by which something is made possible or achievable. This is supported by the Ludwig examples, where "which enables" is used to connect a feature or characteristic to its resulting capability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "which enables" is a frequently used and grammatically sound phrase that introduces a relative clause to explain how something makes a particular action or outcome possible. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage across various domains, particularly in news, science, and business writing. When employing this phrase, ensure it directly and clearly modifies the intended noun to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "that facilitates" or "that makes possible" can be used for semantic variation. Its broad applicability makes it a versatile tool for clear and precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that facilitates

Replaces "enables" with a synonym that emphasizes making an action or process easier.

that makes possible

Uses a more explicit construction to highlight the creation of possibility.

that allows for

Emphasizes permission or opportunity rather than direct enablement.

that permits

Similar to "allows for", but implies a more formal authorization.

that contributes to

Shifts the focus to the contribution towards a result, rather than directly enabling it.

that supports

Suggests a role of providing assistance or reinforcement.

that fosters

Implies nurturing or promoting growth or development.

that gives rise to

Highlights the creation or origination of something as a result.

that paves the way for

Suggests a preparatory action that makes future developments easier.

that is conducive to

Emphasizes the creation of favorable conditions.

FAQs

How can I use "which enables" in a sentence?

Use "which enables" to introduce a relative clause that explains how something makes another thing possible. For example, "The software update, "which enables" faster processing, will be installed tonight."

What are some alternatives to "which enables"?

You can use alternatives like "that facilitates", "that makes possible", or "that allows for" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "which enables" or "that enables"?

While both are grammatically correct, "which enables" is typically used in nonrestrictive clauses (adding extra information), while "that enables" is used in restrictive clauses (essential to the meaning of the sentence). However, this distinction is often blurred in modern usage.

Can I start a sentence with "which enables"?

No, "which enables" is a relative clause and must follow the noun or pronoun it modifies. It cannot be used to begin a sentence.