i can swim vs i am able to swim

Both phrases are correct and convey the same meaning. 'I can swim' is a more common and concise way to express the ability to swim, while 'I am able to swim' is a formal and slightly more elaborate way to convey the same idea. The choice between the two depends on the context and the level of formality desired.

Last updated: March 26, 2024 • 3651 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to express the ability to swim.

"i can swim"

This phrase is a simple and direct way to convey that someone has the ability to swim. It is commonly used in everyday conversations.

Examples:

I can swim very well.
Can you swim across the pool?
She can swim faster than me.
They can swim in the ocean.
We can swim together tomorrow.

Show examples from the web [+]

For your information, I can swim.
I can swim in the deep end alone.
I can swim it faster and not be seen.
I can swim in the ocean, yet still remain dry.
They may contain clues or the down payment... on a small island where I can swim and paint.
Yes, I can swim, but... I got scared all of a sudden.
Well, I can swim good. I can fetch even better.
You threw me in the water, but I can swim.
It's lucky I can swim.
I bet I can swim to that island under the ice.
And I doubt I'll get back to the hotel very much. I'd like to find out where the nearest pool is so I can swim.
Yes. But I don't think I can swim, Hazel.
I can swim like a duck, I'll be sworn.
And I can swim 400 meters breaststroke style
I need you to get the sub close enough to the freighter that I can swim over.
I can walk further than I can swim, brother.
I can swim fine, Dad, OK?
I actually look like I can swim faster than a shark!
I can swim fine, Dad, OK?
I can swim it faster and not be seen.

Alternatives:

I know how to swim.
I am a good swimmer.
I have the ability to swim.
I am capable of swimming.
I am proficient at swimming.

This phrase is correct but less commonly used in everyday language. It is more formal and slightly more elaborate than 'I can swim'.

"i am able to swim"

'I am able to swim' is suitable for more formal contexts or when a slightly more elaborate expression is desired to convey the ability to swim.

Examples:

I am able to swim long distances.
She is able to swim in deep water.
He is able to swim competitively.
They are able to swim in different styles.
We are able to swim in the lake.

Show examples from the web [+]

Tom is not yet able to swim.
Might not be able to swim tomorrow.
If you ever want to be able to swim again...
Might not be able to swim tomorrow.
I may never be able to swim, but I know you can do one pull-up.
No, I just said you were close to being able to swim yourself.
- If... you are able to swim through...
If you ever want to be able to swim again...
I actually jumped in and photographed this, and with the fisherman's permission, I cut the turtle out, and it was able to swim free.
Fancy a plumber not being able to swim.
Immobilisation: those animals that are not able to swim within 15 seconds, after gentle agitation of the test vessel are considered to be immobilised (even if they can still move their antennae).
Do you think I'd be able to swim in there?
Those animals which are not able to swim within 15 seconds after gentle agitation of the test container are considered to be immobile. All concentrations of the test substance are given in weight by volume (milligrams per litre).
Mortality: an animal is recorded as dead when it is immobile, i.e. when it is not able to swim, or if there is no observed movement of appendages or postabdomen, within 15 seconds after gentle agitation of the test container.
Those who are able swim to the ladder.
Are you able to confirm that holidaymakers will be able to swim safely in the Adriatic this summer, and are there any measures in the pipeline for ascertaining what the dangers might be in this respect?
Now I am able to take your soul.
I am able to obtain longitudinal data from our recon drones.
I am able to make my own judgments.
And I am able to accommodate you in that.

Alternatives:

I can swim.
I know how to swim.
I have the ability to swim.
I am capable of swimming.
I am proficient at swimming.

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i can swim vs i am able to swim

"i can swim"

"i am able to swim"

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