"learn to have the ability" vs "learn to have the ability not to"

Question

"learn to have the ability" vs "learn to have the ability not to"

Both phrases are correct, but they convey slightly different meanings. 'Learn to have the ability' implies acquiring a skill or capability, while 'learn to have the ability not to' suggests learning how to refrain from doing something. The choice between the two depends on the specific context and the intended meaning.

Last Updated: March 19, 2024

This phrase is used to express the process of acquiring a new skill or capability.

Examples:

She learned to have the ability to speak five languages fluently.
He is learning to have the ability to play the piano.
They are learning to have the ability to code in Python.

Alternatives:

learn to develop the ability
learn to acquire the ability
learn to gain the ability
learn to master the ability
learn to possess the ability

This phrase is used to express the process of learning how to avoid or refrain from a particular action or behavior.

Examples:

She learned to have the ability not to eat junk food.
He is learning to have the ability not to procrastinate.
They are learning to have the ability not to interrupt others.

Alternatives:

learn to avoid the ability
learn to refrain from the ability
learn to resist the ability
learn to control the ability
learn to suppress the ability

Answer 1

learn to have the ability

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate acquiring a skill or capability.

Answer 2

learn to have the ability not to

This phrase is correct and can be used to indicate learning how to refrain from doing something.

"learn to have the ability" vs "learn to have the ability not to"

learn to have the ability

learn to have the ability not to

Related Comparisons