will only be able

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "will only be able" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to express that someone or something only has the capacity to do a certain thing. For example: "The software engineer will only be able to fix the issue if she has access to the right tools."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

You will only be able to book online.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"But they will only be able to do initial research.

The Guardian

You will only be able to deliver policies you know are inadequate".

The Guardian

Cameron and Ed Miliband will only be able to discuss the CSR in general terms.

The Guardian

From April 2016, landlords will only be able to deduct costs they actually incur.

The Guardian

And today the gas went out, so "cook will only be able to prepare sandwiches".

The New York Times - Magazine

We will only be able to come to a conclusion after investigations".

The New York Times - Tech

Winners will only be able to receive the Prize which they are allocated.

The Guardian

I will only be able to get: 4 lions, 2 leopards, 1 alligator.

The Guardian - Tech

Then he will only be able to confirm; he will never be able to create.

The New Yorker

Universities will only be able to admit these students if they have spare core places.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "will only be able" to clearly define boundaries and constraints, especially when setting expectations in instructions, guidelines, or forecasts.

Common error

Avoid using "will only be able" when the limitation is not absolute or if there are potential exceptions. This can create unnecessary constraints and discourage flexibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "will only be able" functions as a modal verb phrase indicating future capability subject to a specific constraint. It expresses a limited future possibility, as supported by Ludwig's examples and assessment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

33%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Academia

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "will only be able" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to indicate a future limitation or restriction. As highlighted by Ludwig, it is frequently found in news and media, scientific writing, and wiki sources. While "will only be able" is a versatile phrase, it's essential to ensure that the limitation is clear and specific to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "will be limited to" or "will be restricted to" can be used depending on the specific context. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and widely accepted in English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

will be limited to

Directly indicates that something is confined or capped.

will only have the capacity to

Emphasizes the limited capacity or potential to do something.

will not be able to do more than

Expresses a ceiling on one's abilities or opportunities.

will be restricted to

Highlights the limitations or restrictions imposed on an action or capability.

can do no more than

Focuses on absolute boundaries in available actions.

will just be in a position to

Indicates being barely capable, with some difficulty, to achieve something.

can solely

Focuses on exclusivity and doing something by oneself, without assistance.

will merely be capable of

Highlights the basic or minimal level of capability.

will be solely authorized to

Emphasizes that only specific person will be able to do something.

will exclusively be able to

Focuses on the exclusiveness regarding the ability to accomplish an action.

FAQs

How can I use "will only be able" in a sentence?

Use "will only be able" to indicate a restriction or limitation on someone's or something's capacity. For example, "Due to budget cuts, the department "will only be able" to fund essential projects."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "will only be able"?

Alternatives include "will be limited to", "will be restricted to", or "will only have the capacity to", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "will only be able to"?

Yes, the phrase "will only be able to" is grammatically correct. Ludwig confirms its validity and provides numerous examples from reliable sources.

What's the difference between "will only be able" and "can only"?

While both express limitation, "can only" often indicates present ability or permission, whereas "will only be able" typically refers to a future constraint or possibility. For example, "You can only enter with a ticket" versus "You "will only be able" to enter tomorrow if you have a ticket."