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be capable of vs be able to

Both 'be capable of' and 'be able to' are correct phrases in English, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'Be capable of' is used to express having the ability or skill to do something, while 'be able to' is used to indicate the possibility or permission to do something.

Last updated: March 29, 2024 • 1460 views

be capable of

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to express having the ability or skill to do something.

Use 'be capable of' when you want to talk about someone's ability or skill to do something. It is often followed by a verb.

Examples:

She is capable of solving complex problems.
The team is capable of winning the championship.
He is capable of speaking five languages fluently.

Show examples from the web [+]

5 days ago ... be capable of (doing) - Synonyms, related words and examples | Cambridge English Thesaurus.
Dec 7, 2022 ... These are words and phrases related to be capable of. Click on any word or phrase to go to its thesaurus page. Or, go to the definition of ...
Direct connections to roofs and floors, and counterweights used to balance adjustable suspension scaffolds, shall be capable of resisting at least 4 times ...
... each scaffold and scaffold component shall be capable of supporting, ... which required that scaffolds and scaffold components "be capable of supporting ...
May 17, 2013 ... A closely related argument that argues against using “be able to” or “be capable of” is that a requirement statement that says a system has to ...
Instead, he had proved himself to be capable of great human emotion.• The system must be capable of identifying any new entries or sense sections which have ...
... by the State in which the doctor practices; or; Any other person determined by the Secretary to be capable of providing health care services.
To be capable of something is to be able to do it, like your little brother who is perfectly capable of tying his own shoes, but likes having everyone else ...

Alternatives:

have the ability to
have the skill to
possess the capability to
have the capacity to
be competent at

be able to

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate the possibility or permission to do something.

Use 'be able to' when you want to talk about the possibility or permission to do something. It is often followed by a verb.

Examples:

I am able to swim.
She will be able to attend the meeting.
He was able to finish the project on time.

Show examples from the web [+]

I just might be able to make your night a memorable one.
National Authorities should be able to effectively implement the CWC.
Self-regulatory bodies should be able to exercise supervision.
Companies need to be able to do business now.
Complainants must also be able to appeal against negative decisions.
The European Parliament should be able to request consultations.
All Quartet partners should be able to contribute.
Chinese Internet users must be able to access uncensored information.
I hope Parliament will also be able to support this.
We need to be able to discuss these issues.
At least yourfingers should be able to remember.
Everyone should be able to access such events freely.
We should be able to cure everyone afflicted.
Now no one else will ever be able to translate the map.
And I might be able to help him.
One should be able to do anything, even coffee.
That maybe Master Antônio will not be able to work anymore.
In this business, you must be able to fight.
I'd like to be able to spell Connecticut.
You should be able to cultivate the right kinds of friends...

Alternatives:

have the ability to
have the permission to
have the possibility to
have the capability to
have the capacity to

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