"that is able to" vs "which is able to"

Question

"that is able to" vs "which is able to"

Both "that is able to" and "which is able to" are correct and commonly used in English. The choice between them depends on the context and personal preference.

Last Updated: March 17, 2024

This phrase is used to introduce a defining relative clause that provides essential information about the noun it follows.

Examples:

I need a car that is able to carry heavy loads.
She is a doctor that is able to perform complex surgeries.
He is a chef that is able to cook delicious meals.
We require a system that is able to handle large amounts of data.
They are a team that is able to work well under pressure.

Alternatives:

that can
that has the ability to
that has the capacity to
that possesses the capability to
that demonstrates the skill to

This phrase is used to introduce a non-defining relative clause that provides additional, non-essential information about the noun it follows.

Examples:

The new software, which is able to process data faster, will be released next month.
The company, which is able to adapt quickly to market changes, has seen significant growth.
The team, which is able to communicate effectively, completed the project ahead of schedule.
The device, which is able to connect to multiple devices simultaneously, is very popular.
The organization, which is able to provide excellent customer service, has a loyal customer base.

Alternatives:

which can
which has the ability to
which has the capacity to
which possesses the capability to
which demonstrates the skill to

Answer 1

that is able to

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

which is able to

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"that is able to" vs "which is able to"

that is able to

which is able to

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