"early enough to" vs "early enough to be able"

Question

"early enough to" vs "early enough to be able"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Early enough to' is commonly used when stating the time at which something is done, while 'early enough to be able' is used when emphasizing the ability to do something at a certain time.

Last Updated: March 21, 2024

This phrase is used to specify the time at which an action is completed or a condition is met. It is often followed by a verb or a noun.

Examples:

She arrived early enough to catch the train.
He woke up early enough to see the sunrise.
They left early enough to avoid the traffic.
I finished my work early enough to join the meeting.
The store closes early enough to allow for some shopping.

Alternatives:

in time to
soon enough to
quickly enough to
promptly enough to
sufficiently early to

This phrase is used to highlight the capability or opportunity to perform an action at a specific early time. It is often followed by a verb.

Examples:

She woke up early enough to be able to finish her homework before school.
He arrived early enough to be able to secure a good spot for the concert.
They left early enough to be able to enjoy a leisurely breakfast.
I got there early enough to be able to help with the setup.
The team practiced early enough to be able to perfect their routine.

Alternatives:

early enough to have the ability to
early enough to have the opportunity to
early enough to manage to
early enough to succeed in
early enough to accomplish

Answer 1

early enough to

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate the time at which something is done.

Answer 2

early enough to be able

This phrase is correct and is used to emphasize the ability to do something at a certain time.

"early enough to" vs "early enough to be able"

early enough to

early enough to be able

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