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B1 adjective #49 most common 15 min read

capable

Top 49

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips capable in 30 Seconds

Explanation capable in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'capable' might be a bit difficult, but you can think of it as a more formal way to say 'can' or 'able to'. When you say someone is capable, you mean they have the power or the skill to do something. For example, if you can ride a bike, you are capable of riding a bike. At this level, just remember that 'capable' is usually followed by 'of' and then a word ending in '-ing'. So, instead of 'I can swim', you could say 'I am capable of swimming'. It is a word used to describe what people or things are able to do. You might see it in simple stories or hear it when someone is talking about what a new toy or a simple machine can do. It's a good word to learn if you want to sound a little more grown-up when you speak English. Just think: 'capable' = 'can do'. It's about having the ability. If you have the ability to do your homework, you are capable of doing it. It's a very positive word most of the time because it means you have the power to succeed. Even at this early stage, try to notice when people use 'capable' instead of 'can'. It often sounds more serious or official. For example, a teacher might say, 'You are a capable student,' which means they think you are good at learning and can do your work well. It's a nice compliment to receive!

At the A2 level, you can start using 'capable' to describe people's skills more clearly. It is an adjective, which means it describes a person, place, or thing. You will often hear it used to describe someone who is good at their job or good at taking care of things. For example, 'My mother is a very capable woman; she can fix anything in the house.' This means she has the skills and the practical ability to do those things. A key thing to learn at this level is the pattern: 'Subject + be + capable of + [verb]-ing'. For example, 'He is capable of running very fast.' This is a more advanced way of saying 'He can run very fast.' You might also see 'capable' used to describe machines or tools. A small car might be 'capable of carrying four people.' This tells you what the car is able to do. Using 'capable' makes your English sound more professional and precise. It's also useful for talking about your own strengths. In a simple job interview or when talking to a teacher, you might say, 'I am capable of working hard' or 'I am capable of learning new things quickly.' This shows that you have confidence in your own abilities. Remember, 'capable' is about having the potential or the necessary qualities to do something successfully. It's a very useful word for describing both people and the things they use every day.

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'capable' in a variety of contexts, especially in work and study environments. This word is a key part of the B1 vocabulary because it allows you to discuss competency and potential with more nuance than the simple word 'can'. When you describe someone as 'capable', you are implying they are reliable, efficient, and have the necessary skills to handle a task. For example, 'We need a capable person to lead the project.' This suggests the person should not only have the skills but also the maturity and responsibility to manage others. You should also be aware of the common phrase 'perfectly capable', which is often used to emphasize that someone doesn't need help. 'I'm perfectly capable of doing it myself, thank you.' This is a common way to assert independence. At this level, you should also understand that 'capable of' can be used for both positive and negative things. While 'capable of winning' is positive, 'capable of making a mistake' is a neutral or negative observation about human nature. You will see 'capable' in news articles, business emails, and textbooks. It is a standard word for describing the functional limits of technology as well, such as 'This software is capable of processing large files.' Mastering the 'capable of + -ing' structure is essential at this level to avoid the common mistake of using the infinitive 'to'. Using 'capable' correctly will significantly improve the professional tone of your writing and speaking.

At the B2 level, you are expected to understand the finer nuances of 'capable' and how it differs from similar words like 'competent', 'proficient', or 'adept'. While 'capable' refers to having the general ability or potential, 'competent' often implies meeting a specific required standard, and 'proficient' suggests a high level of expertise. You should be able to use these words interchangeably but also know when one is more appropriate than the other. For instance, in a professional setting, you might describe a new employee as 'capable' (they have potential) but a senior staff member as 'highly proficient' (they have deep expertise). You should also be familiar with idiomatic expressions like 'in capable hands', which is a common way to reassure someone that a situation is being managed well. 'Don't worry about the event; it's in very capable hands.' Furthermore, at the B2 level, you should be able to use 'capable' to describe more abstract concepts, such as a person's 'mental capability' or a 'legally capable' individual. You might also encounter the word in more complex grammatical structures, such as 'He proved himself more than capable of the task,' where 'more than capable' acts as an intensifier. You should also be sensitive to the potential negative connotations of 'capable of anything', which can imply a lack of moral scruples. Being able to navigate these different layers of meaning—from technical capacity to moral potential—is a hallmark of a B2 learner. Your use of 'capable' should now feel natural and integrated into your broader vocabulary of skill and ability.

At the C1 level, your use of 'capable' should be sophisticated and precise. You should be able to use it to convey subtle shades of meaning in complex discussions. For example, you might use 'capable' to distinguish between someone's current performance and their latent potential. A C1 speaker might say, 'While his current output is modest, he is clearly capable of much more,' highlighting a gap between reality and possibility. You should also be adept at using 'capable' in formal, academic, or legal contexts. In a legal sense, 'capable' refers to having the mental capacity to perform certain acts, such as entering into a contract. In an academic context, you might discuss the 'capabilities' of a particular theoretical framework or the 'inherent capabilities' of a biological species. You should also be comfortable with the noun form 'capability' and how it is used in business and military strategy (e.g., 'nuclear capability', 'technological capabilities'). At this level, you should also be able to use 'capable' to describe character in a more literary or psychological way. 'He was a man capable of great depths of emotion, though he rarely showed it.' This uses the word to explore the hidden parts of a person's nature. You should also be aware of the word's etymology—from the Latin 'capabilis', meaning 'able to take or hold'—and how this sense of 'capacity' still informs its modern usage. Your ability to use 'capable' and its derivatives with such precision and across such a wide range of registers is a clear indicator of advanced linguistic competence.

At the C2 level, 'capable' is a word you use with complete mastery, often employing it in highly nuanced or even ironic ways. You understand that 'capable' can sometimes be 'faint praise'—describing someone as 'capable' in a field of geniuses might actually imply they are merely competent rather than exceptional. You can navigate these social and professional subtleties with ease. You are also fully aware of the word's role in various specialized discourses. In philosophy, you might discuss the 'capable subject' (le sujet capable) in the works of Paul Ricoeur, which involves a deep exploration of human agency and the power to act, speak, and be responsible. In high-level technical writing, you use 'capable' to define the absolute parameters of complex systems with mathematical precision. You are also a master of the word's idiomatic and metaphorical potential. You might use it in a sentence like, 'The landscape was capable of a bleak beauty that few could appreciate,' using the word to attribute a kind of agency or potential to the natural world. Your understanding of the word extends to its rarest uses and its most subtle collocations. You can use 'capable' to construct complex character studies or to provide profound insights into the limits of human and technological potential. At this level, the word is not just a tool for description, but a precise instrument for analysis and expression, used with a deep awareness of its historical weight and its contemporary resonance in every possible register of the English language.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

capable in 30 Seconds

Capable refers to having the skills, power, or qualities needed to do something effectively and reliably in various situations.
It is commonly used with the preposition 'of' followed by a verb ending in '-ing' to specify a particular ability.
The word can describe both a person's general professional competence and the technical limits or features of a machine or system.
While usually positive, it can also describe a person's potential for negative actions, such as being 'capable of lying'.

The word capable is a versatile adjective that functions as a cornerstone of describing competency and potential in the English language. At its core, it refers to having the necessary ability, fitness, or quality to achieve a specific end. Unlike the word 'able', which often refers to a specific, immediate possibility (e.g., 'I am able to swim'), 'capable' frequently implies a broader, more inherent set of skills or a latent potential that can be called upon when needed. When we describe a person as capable, we are offering a vote of confidence in their general proficiency and reliability. It suggests that they are not just skilled in one narrow task, but possess the mental or physical equipment to handle challenges effectively. This word is ubiquitous in professional environments, where it serves as a standard for evaluating employees, systems, and strategies. It carries a tone of steady, unflashy competence—a 'capable' person is someone you trust to get the job done without constant supervision.

General Competence: Used to describe a person who is efficient, practical, and good at their job. It focuses on their overall reliability.

We need a capable administrator to manage the new project logistics.

In a more technical or abstract sense, 'capable' describes the limits or functional range of a machine, a system, or even a biological entity. For instance, a computer might be 'capable' of processing complex algorithms, or a bridge might be 'capable' of supporting ten tons of weight. Here, the word defines the boundary of what is possible for that object. It is also frequently paired with the preposition 'of' to indicate a specific action or potential behavior. This construction—'capable of'—is particularly powerful because it can describe both positive achievements ('capable of winning') and negative possibilities ('capable of lying'). This duality makes it a critical word for nuanced character descriptions and technical specifications alike. In everyday conversation, you might hear it used to reassure someone: 'Don't worry, she's perfectly capable of handling the kids for an hour.' This usage emphasizes self-sufficiency and the absence of a need for help.

Functional Capacity: Refers to the maximum potential or the specific functions an object or system can perform.

The latest smartphone is capable of recording video in 8K resolution.

Historically, the word has evolved from the Latin 'capabilis', meaning 'able to take or hold'. This origin is still felt today in the way we use the word to describe 'capacity'. To be capable is to have the 'room' or the 'vessel' for a certain skill or power. It is a word that looks toward the future; it doesn't just say what someone is doing now, but what they *could* do if the situation demanded it. This is why it is so common in educational settings and developmental psychology. Teachers look for 'capable' students—those who have the underlying intelligence and discipline to succeed, even if they haven't mastered the material yet. It is a word of potentiality. Furthermore, in legal and formal contexts, 'capable' takes on a specific meaning regarding mental fitness. A person must be 'legally capable' to sign a contract or stand trial, meaning they have the cognitive faculty to understand their actions. This highlights the word's connection to the fundamental state of the human mind and its abilities.

Latent Potential: Suggests that someone has the power to do something, even if they are not currently doing it.

Though he is quiet, he is capable of great leadership when the situation arises.

The software is capable of handling thousands of simultaneous users.

She proved herself capable during the emergency by remaining calm and giving clear orders.

Using 'capable' correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical patterns and its semantic weight. The most frequent construction is the adjective followed by the preposition 'of' and a gerund (the -ing form of a verb) or a noun. This structure identifies the specific area of competence. For example, 'He is capable of excellence' or 'She is capable of managing the entire department.' It is a common mistake for learners to follow 'capable' with an infinitive (to + verb), but 'capable to do' is generally considered incorrect in modern English; 'capable of doing' is the standard. When used as a standalone adjective modifying a noun, as in 'a capable lawyer', it acts as a general descriptor of professional quality. It implies that the lawyer is not just licensed, but actually effective and skilled in their practice.

The 'Capable of' Pattern: This is the most common way to specify what someone can do. It always takes the '-ing' form of the following verb.

The human brain is capable of processing vast amounts of information in milliseconds.

Another important usage involves the degree of capability. We often use adverbs like 'perfectly', 'highly', 'more than', or 'barely' to modify 'capable'. 'Perfectly capable' is a very common idiomatic expression used to emphasize that someone has all the necessary skills and needs no assistance, often used when someone is being over-protective. 'Highly capable' is a standard professional compliment, suggesting a level of skill that exceeds the average. Conversely, 'barely capable' suggests a struggle to meet the minimum requirements. Understanding these modifiers allows you to fine-tune your descriptions of people and systems. Furthermore, 'capable' can be used in the comparative and superlative forms—'more capable' and 'most capable'—to rank individuals or tools within a group. 'Among all the candidates, she was the most capable' clearly identifies her as the top choice based on skill.

Emphasis with Adverbs: Adverbs help define the level of skill. 'Perfectly capable' is often used to assert independence.

I am perfectly capable of driving myself to the airport, thank you.

In formal writing, 'capable' often appears in the phrase 'in capable hands'. This idiom is used to reassure someone that a task or situation is being managed by someone competent. It is a powerful way to build trust. Additionally, the word can be used to describe an individual's potential for negative actions, which is a subtle but important usage. 'He is capable of murder' or 'She is capable of extreme cruelty' uses the word to describe the dark depths of a person's character. In these instances, 'capable' doesn't mean 'good at', but rather 'having the internal lack of restraint necessary to perform' such an act. This versatility—from professional praise to chilling character analysis—makes 'capable' an essential tool for any writer or speaker looking to convey depth of character or functional limits.

The 'In Capable Hands' Idiom: A common way to say that a situation is being handled by someone who knows what they are doing.

With Dr. Smith performing the surgery, we knew the patient was in capable hands.

The new engine is capable of reaching speeds up to 200 miles per hour.

You are much more capable than you give yourself credit for.

You will encounter 'capable' in a wide variety of real-world scenarios, ranging from high-stakes corporate meetings to casual family discussions. In the workplace, it is a primary descriptor used during performance reviews and hiring processes. A manager might say, 'We need to find a capable replacement for Sarah,' implying they need someone who can step in and maintain the same level of productivity without a steep learning curve. In this context, 'capable' is a synonym for 'reliable' and 'skilled'. It is also frequently found in job descriptions, where 'must be capable of lifting 50 pounds' or 'capable of working in a fast-paced environment' sets the physical or mental requirements for the role. It is a word that bridges the gap between a person's identity and their functional utility in an organization.

Professional Reviews: Used to evaluate an employee's ability to perform their duties effectively.

The board of directors is looking for a capable leader to guide the company through the merger.

In the world of technology and product marketing, 'capable' is used to highlight the features and power of a product. Whether it's a new software suite 'capable of automating complex workflows' or a rugged SUV 'capable of navigating off-road terrain', the word serves to define the product's value proposition. It tells the consumer what the product can do for them. This usage is often found in technical manuals and promotional materials. Similarly, in scientific and academic writing, 'capable' is used to describe the properties of materials or the potential of biological systems. A scientist might write about a 'material capable of conducting electricity at high temperatures', using the word to denote a specific physical property. This demonstrates the word's importance in precise, descriptive communication across various disciplines.

Product Marketing: Used to describe the features and functional limits of a product or technology.

This drone is capable of flying for forty minutes on a single charge.

On a more personal level, 'capable' is often heard in conversations about independence and growth. Parents might discuss whether their teenager is 'capable of staying home alone for the weekend', which involves an assessment of the child's maturity and responsibility. In therapy or self-help contexts, the word is used to empower individuals, helping them realize they are 'capable of change' or 'capable of overcoming their fears'. Here, the word is deeply tied to self-efficacy—the belief in one's own ability to succeed. It is a word that can provide comfort or motivation. Whether it's a doctor reassuring a patient that their body is 'capable of healing' or a friend telling you that you are 'more than capable' of passing an exam, the word carries a weight of encouragement and affirmation of human potential.

Personal Growth: Used to discuss a person's maturity, independence, and ability to handle life's challenges.

She wanted to prove to her parents that she was capable of living on her own.

The military is capable of deploying troops within twenty-four hours.

Is the current infrastructure capable of supporting such a large population increase?

One of the most frequent errors English learners make with 'capable' is using the wrong grammatical structure following the word. Many students mistakenly use the infinitive form (to + verb), likely because many similar adjectives like 'able' or 'ready' use this pattern. For example, a student might say, 'He is capable to swim,' which sounds unnatural to a native speaker. The correct form is always 'capable of' followed by a gerund: 'He is capable of swimming.' This is a hard rule to remember because 'able to' and 'capable of' mean almost the same thing, but their grammatical requirements are strictly different. Mastering this distinction is a key step in moving from intermediate to advanced English proficiency. Always pair 'capable' with 'of' and an '-ing' verb.

The Infinitive Error: Avoid saying 'capable to [verb]'. Instead, use 'capable of [verb]-ing'.

Incorrect: He is capable to finish the work. Correct: He is capable of finishing the work.

Another common mistake involves confusing 'capable' with 'able' or 'competent' in contexts where the nuance matters. While they are synonyms, they are not always interchangeable. 'Able' often refers to a specific instance of being able to do something right now, whereas 'capable' refers to a more general or potential ability. For instance, if you have a broken leg, you are 'unable' to walk, but you are still a 'capable' person in general. Confusing these can lead to sentences that feel slightly 'off' to native speakers. Similarly, 'competent' usually refers to having the necessary skills for a job, while 'capable' can refer to a broader potential. A 'competent' driver follows the rules; a 'capable' driver can handle a car in a high-speed chase. Understanding these subtle differences helps in choosing the word that best fits the intended meaning.

Confusing 'Able' and 'Capable': 'Able' is often about current possibility; 'capable' is about general power or potential.

While he wasn't able to attend the meeting, he is still a very capable team member.

A third mistake is failing to recognize the negative connotation 'capable of' can carry. When someone says, 'He is capable of anything,' it is often not a compliment. It usually implies that the person has no moral boundaries and might do something dangerous or unethical. Learners sometimes use this phrase thinking it means the person is very talented, but in many contexts, it sounds like a warning. To avoid this, if you want to praise someone's vast talents, it is better to say 'He is extremely talented' or 'He is capable of achieving great things.' Being aware of these idiomatic nuances prevents social misunderstandings. Finally, ensure you don't over-use the word. In some cases, simpler words like 'can' or 'good at' are more appropriate for casual conversation, while 'capable' can sometimes sound a bit formal or clinical if used too frequently.

The 'Capable of Anything' Trap: Be careful with this phrase; it often implies a lack of moral restraint rather than high skill.

Watch out for him; he's capable of anything when he's angry.

The system is capable of much more than we are currently using it for.

Are you capable of keeping a secret?

To truly master the word 'capable', it is helpful to compare it with its synonyms and understand the specific flavor each word brings to a sentence. 'Able' is the most direct synonym, but as discussed, it is often more situational and grammatically different ('able to' vs 'capable of'). 'Competent' is another close relative, but it specifically emphasizes meeting a required standard or having the necessary skills for a task. You might be 'capable' of doing something you've never done before because you have the raw talent, but you are only 'competent' once you have proven you can do it correctly. 'Proficient' goes a step further, suggesting a high level of skill and experience, often in a specific technical area like a language or a software tool. Using 'proficient' instead of 'capable' elevates the level of expertise you are describing.

Capable vs. Competent: 'Capable' focuses on potential and power; 'competent' focuses on meeting standards and being 'good enough'.

He is a capable student, but he needs to become more competent in his lab work.

Other alternatives include 'adept', 'gifted', and 'talented'. 'Adept' implies being very skilled at something that is perhaps difficult or requires a lot of practice, like 'adept at diplomacy'. 'Gifted' and 'talented' suggest that the ability is natural or innate, rather than learned. While a 'capable' person might have worked hard to gain their skills, a 'gifted' person seems to have been born with them. On the more technical side, 'functional' or 'operational' can sometimes replace 'capable' when describing machines or systems. For example, 'The system is now functional' means it is capable of performing its intended tasks. On the negative side, 'incapable' is the direct antonym, but words like 'inept', 'incompetent', or 'unfit' provide more specific ways to describe a lack of ability. 'Inept' suggests a clumsy lack of skill, while 'incompetent' is a more serious professional criticism.

Capable vs. Adept: 'Capable' is a general term for ability; 'adept' suggests a high degree of specialized skill or cleverness.

She is capable of learning the piano, but her brother is already quite adept at it.

Finally, consider the word 'efficient'. While a 'capable' person can do the job, an 'efficient' person does it with the least amount of wasted time and effort. In a fast-paced work environment, being 'capable' is the baseline, but being 'efficient' is the goal. Similarly, 'reliable' focuses on the consistency of the ability over time. A 'capable' person has the skill, but a 'reliable' person shows up and uses that skill every single day. By understanding these nuances, you can choose the exact word that captures the quality you want to highlight. Whether you are writing a recommendation letter, a technical report, or a story, having a range of alternatives for 'capable' allows you to be more descriptive and accurate in your communication. This depth of vocabulary is what separates a good communicator from a great one.

Capable vs. Reliable: 'Capable' refers to the power to do something; 'reliable' refers to the consistency of doing it.

He is a capable worker, but he isn't always reliable when it comes to deadlines.

The new software is capable of replacing three older programs.

Are you capable of handling this much responsibility?

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The word 'capable' shares the same root as 'capture', 'capacity', and even 'recipe' (which originally meant 'take this' in Latin). They all relate to the idea of 'taking' or 'holding'.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈkeɪ.pə.bəl/

US /ˈkeɪ.pə.bəl/

First syllable: CA-pa-ble.

Rhymes With

shakable breakable makable takable scalable tamable namable framable

Common Errors

Pronouncing it as 'ca-PABLE' with stress on the second syllable.
Pronouncing the 'a' in the middle as a long 'A' instead of a schwa.
Confusing it with 'capacity' and trying to pronounce it similarly.
Forgetting the 'l' sound at the end.
Over-emphasizing the 'ble' at the end.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Common in newspapers and books, easy to recognize.

Writing 4/5

Requires correct preposition ('of') and verb form ('-ing').

Speaking 3/5

Useful for professional and personal descriptions.

Listening 2/5

Clear pronunciation, often used in professional contexts.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

able can skill power good

Learn Next

competent proficient efficient capacity potential

Advanced

adept efficacious facilitate aptitude tenable

Grammar to Know

Adjective + Prepositional Phrase

She is capable of (preposition) winning (gerund).

Gerunds after Prepositions

He is capable of *running* (not 'to run').

Adverbial Modification of Adjectives

She is *highly* capable.

Attributive vs Predicative Adjectives

A capable man (attributive) vs The man is capable (predicative).

Comparative Adjectives

She is *more capable* than her predecessor.

Examples by Level

He is capable of running fast.

Il est capable de courir vite.

Uses 'capable of' + '-ing' verb.

She is capable of reading this book.

Elle est capable de lire ce livre.

Shows ability to perform a simple task.

The bird is capable of flying high.

L'oiseau est capable de voler haut.

Describes a natural ability.

Are you capable of helping me?

Es-tu capable de m'aider ?

Question form using 'capable of'.

I am capable of cooking dinner.

Je suis capable de cuisiner le dîner.

First-person statement of ability.

This pen is capable of writing on glass.

Ce stylo est capable d'écrire sur le verre.

Describes the function of an object.

They are capable of working together.

Ils sont capables de travailler ensemble.

Describes social ability.

Is he capable of swimming across the pool?

Est-il capable de traverser la piscine à la nage ?

Question about physical potential.

She is a very capable teacher.

C'est une enseignante très compétente.

Adjective modifying a noun directly.

This computer is capable of playing games.

Cet ordinateur est capable de faire tourner des jeux.

Technical capacity of a machine.

He is capable of fixing the car.

Il est capable de réparer la voiture.

Practical skill description.

We need a capable person for this job.

Nous avons besoin d'une personne compétente pour ce travail.

Professional requirement.

Is the bridge capable of holding heavy trucks?

Le pont est-il capable de supporter des camions lourds ?

Structural limit or capacity.

She is perfectly capable of walking to school.

Elle est tout à fait capable d'aller à l'école à pied.

Emphasis with 'perfectly'.

The plant is capable of growing in the shade.

La plante est capable de pousser à l'ombre.

Biological potential.

You are capable of doing better work.

Tu es capable de faire un meilleur travail.

Encouragement regarding potential.

The new manager seems very capable and organized.

Le nouveau manager semble très compétent et organisé.

Describing professional character.

This software is capable of generating complex reports.

Ce logiciel est capable de générer des rapports complexes.

Describing software functionality.

I don't think he is capable of lying to us.

Je ne pense pas qu'il soit capable de nous mentir.

Describing moral character (negative potential).

She proved herself capable of handling the pressure.

Elle s'est montrée capable de gérer la pression.

Reflexive verb + capable of.

Are these batteries capable of lasting all day?

Ces batteries sont-elles capables de tenir toute la journée ?

Question about endurance/capacity.

The team is capable of winning the championship this year.

L'équipe est capable de gagner le championnat cette année.

Collective potential.

He is more than capable of doing the task alone.

Il est plus que capable d'accomplir la tâche seul.

Intensifier 'more than' with capable.

The factory is capable of producing 1,000 units a day.

L'usine est capable de produire 1 000 unités par jour.

Industrial capacity.

She is a highly capable lawyer with a track record of success.

C'est une avocate très compétente avec un palmarès de succès.

Professional evaluation with adverb.

The human heart is capable of incredible resilience.

Le cœur humain est capable d'une incroyable résilience.

Abstract quality using 'capable of'.

The aircraft is capable of supersonic speeds.

L'avion est capable d'atteindre des vitesses supersoniques.

Technical/scientific specification.

He is capable of a level of cruelty that surprised everyone.

Il est capable d'un niveau de cruauté qui a surpris tout le monde.

Describing a negative character trait.

The system must be capable of adapting to changing conditions.

Le système doit être capable de s'adapter aux conditions changeantes.

Requirement for flexibility/adaptability.

In capable hands, this tool can create masterpieces.

Entre des mains expertes, cet outil peut créer des chefs-d'œuvre.

Idiomatic use: 'in capable hands'.

She is capable of much more than she currently demonstrates.

Elle est capable de bien plus que ce qu'elle démontre actuellement.

Comparing current state with potential.

Is the government capable of resolving this crisis?

Le gouvernement est-il capable de résoudre cette crise ?

Political/institutional capability.

The philosopher argued that humans are inherently capable of altruism.

Le philosophe a soutenu que les humains sont intrinsèquement capables d'altruisme.

Academic/philosophical usage.

The infrastructure is barely capable of sustaining the current population.

L'infrastructure est à peine capable de soutenir la population actuelle.

Using 'barely' to show a limit.

He is a man capable of profound silence and deep thought.

C'est un homme capable d'un silence profond et d'une réflexion intense.

Literary description of character.

The virus is capable of mutating rapidly to evade the immune system.

Le virus est capable de muter rapidement pour échapper au système immunitaire.

Scientific description of biological potential.

The legal team questioned whether the defendant was mentally capable of intent.

L'équipe juridique s'est demandé si le prévenu était mentalement capable d'intention.

Legal/forensic usage regarding mental state.

This new material is capable of withstanding extreme thermal stress.

Ce nouveau matériau est capable de résister à un stress thermique extrême.

Engineering/materials science context.

She is a capable administrator who navigated the company through bankruptcy.

C'est une administratrice compétente qui a guidé l'entreprise à travers la faillite.

Professional achievement description.

The economy is capable of a robust recovery if policies are aligned.

L'économie est capable d'une reprise vigoureuse si les politiques sont alignées.

Macroeconomic potential.

The prose is capable of a lyrical beauty that transcends its grim subject matter.

La prose est capable d'une beauté lyrique qui transcende son sujet sinistre.

Aesthetic/literary analysis.

He was a politician capable of the most cynical manipulations.

C'était un politicien capable des manipulations les plus cyniques.

Nuanced character critique.

The software architecture is capable of near-infinite scalability.

L'architecture logicielle est capable d'une évolutivité quasi infinie.

High-level technical specification.

The human spirit is capable of enduring hardships that defy logic.

L'esprit humain est capable d'endurer des épreuves qui défient la logique.

Philosophical/existential observation.

Is the current international order capable of averting ecological collapse?

L'ordre international actuel est-il capable d'éviter l'effondrement écologique ?

Global/geopolitical inquiry.

The artist's later works are capable of evoking a profound sense of nostalgia.

Les œuvres tardives de l'artiste sont capables d'évoquer un profond sentiment de nostalgie.

Art criticism and emotional impact.

The treaty is capable of multiple interpretations, leading to diplomatic friction.

Le traité est susceptible de multiples interprétations, ce qui entraîne des frictions diplomatiques.

Legal/diplomatic ambiguity.

She possesses a capable mind that dissects complex problems with surgical precision.

Elle possède un esprit capable qui dissèque les problèmes complexes avec une précision chirurgicale.

Metaphorical description of intellect.

Common Collocations

capable of

highly capable

perfectly capable

more than capable

proven capable

legally capable

mentally capable

physically capable

capable hands

seem capable

Common Phrases

in capable hands

— Being managed by someone who is competent and reliable.

Don't worry about the kids; they are in capable hands with their grandmother.

perfectly capable

— Having all the necessary skills, often used to assert independence.

I'm perfectly capable of finding my own way home.

capable of anything

— Having no limits, often used to imply a person might do something bad.

He's a desperate man, and a desperate man is capable of anything.

more than capable

— Exceeding the required level of skill for a task.

She is more than capable of leading this department.

highly capable

— Possessing a high degree of skill and proficiency.

We are looking for a highly capable candidate for the CEO position.

capable of improvement

— Having the potential to become better.

Your essay is good, but it is certainly capable of improvement.

barely capable

— Only just meeting the minimum requirements for a task.

The old engine was barely capable of pulling the heavy load.

physically capable

— Having the bodily strength or health to do something.

You need to be physically capable of lifting heavy boxes for this job.

mentally capable

— Having the cognitive health or intelligence to do something.

The doctor will determine if the patient is mentally capable of giving consent.

technically capable

— Having the specific technical skills or features required.

Is the current software technically capable of supporting 5G?

Often Confused With

capable vs able

Able is followed by 'to' + infinitive. Capable is followed by 'of' + gerund.

capable vs competent

Competent means meeting a standard. Capable means having the potential or power.

capable vs capacity

Capacity is the noun (the amount something can hold). Capable is the adjective.

Idioms & Expressions

"in capable hands"

— Under the care or management of someone who is competent.

The company is in capable hands with the new CEO.

neutral/formal

"capable of anything"

— Unpredictable and potentially dangerous or extremely talented.

In that state of mind, he was capable of anything.

informal/neutral

"a capable pair of hands"

— A person who is reliable and good at their job.

We need a capable pair of hands to take over the accounting.

informal/idiomatic

"more than capable"

— Very skilled; better than what is needed.

She's more than capable of handling a few difficult customers.

neutral

"perfectly capable"

— Fully able to do something without help.

I am perfectly capable of making my own decisions.

neutral

"capable of great things"

— Having high potential for success.

That young man is capable of great things if he works hard.

neutral

"hardly capable"

— Almost unable to do something.

He was so tired he was hardly capable of standing up.

neutral

"not capable of a lie"

— Extremely honest; unable to be dishonest.

She is a woman not capable of a lie.

literary

"capable of much more"

— Having untapped potential.

This project is capable of much more than we originally planned.

neutral

"a capable administrator"

— A standard phrase for someone good at managing systems.

She has a reputation as a very capable administrator.

formal

Easily Confused

capable vs able

They have very similar meanings.

Able is more about specific instances and uses 'to'. Capable is more about general potential and uses 'of'.

I am able to jump (specific act). I am capable of jumping (general ability).

capable vs competent

Both describe being good at something.

Competent implies you have the necessary skills for a specific job. Capable is broader and can include latent potential.

He is a competent plumber. She is a capable leader.

capable vs proficient

Both relate to skill level.

Proficient suggests a high level of mastery, usually in a technical skill. Capable is more general.

She is proficient in Python. He is a capable worker.

capable vs adept

Both mean being skilled.

Adept suggests being clever or very skillful at something difficult. Capable is more about basic power or fitness.

He is adept at card tricks. She is capable of running a company.

capable vs efficient

Both are positive workplace descriptors.

Efficient means doing things without waste. Capable just means being able to do them.

The capable worker finished the task. The efficient worker finished it in half the time.

Sentence Patterns

Subject + be + capable.

He is capable.

Subject + be + capable of + [verb]-ing.

She is capable of swimming.

Subject + be + perfectly capable of + [verb]-ing.

I am perfectly capable of doing it.

Subject + prove + oneself + capable of + [noun].

He proved himself capable of leadership.

It + be + [adjective] + whether + subject + be + capable of + [noun].

It is questionable whether he is capable of such intent.

Noun + be + capable of + [abstract noun] + that + [clause].

The prose is capable of a beauty that transcends the subject.

A + capable + [noun].

A capable administrator.

In + capable + hands.

The project is in capable hands.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

High in professional, technical, and academic English. Medium in casual conversation.

Common Mistakes

He is capable to do it. → He is capable of doing it.
You must use 'of' + gerund, not the infinitive 'to'. This is the most frequent error.
She is a capability woman. → She is a capable woman.
Use the adjective 'capable' to describe a person, not the noun 'capability'.
The machine is capable to print fast. → The machine is capable of printing fast.
The same 'of + -ing' rule applies to machines and systems.
He is capable for the job. → He is capable of doing the job.
While 'fit for' is correct, 'capable' usually takes 'of'.
I am capable of a lie. → I am capable of lying.
While 'capable of a lie' is technically possible in literary English, 'capable of lying' is much more natural.

Tips

Always use 'of'

Never use 'to' after 'capable'. Always use 'of' followed by a gerund (-ing) or a noun. This is the most important rule for this word.

Professional Praise

Use 'capable' in professional settings to describe someone who is reliable. It sounds more objective and serious than 'good at their job'.

Negative Potential

Be aware that 'capable of' can be used for negative traits. 'He is capable of anything' can be a warning about someone's lack of morals.

Assertion of Independence

Use 'perfectly capable' when you want to politely tell someone you can handle a task yourself without their assistance.

Technical Specs

In technical writing, use 'capable of' to define the functional boundaries of a system, such as speed, weight, or processing power.

Building Trust

Use the phrase 'in capable hands' to reassure clients or colleagues that a project is being handled by a competent person.

Capable vs. Competent

Remember that 'capable' often implies potential, while 'competent' implies meeting a specific standard. Choose the one that fits your meaning.

Stress the First Syllable

The stress is on 'KAY'. Pronouncing it correctly helps you sound more natural and confident in professional conversations.

The 'C' Rule

Think: Capable = Can do + Competence. It's the 'C' word for ability. This helps you remember its positive professional meaning.

Formal Tone

If you want to sound more formal in a report, replace 'can' with 'is capable of'. It elevates the tone of your writing immediately.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'CAP' that fits perfectly. If you are 'CAP-able', you have the 'CAP' (capacity) to hold the skill. You are 'able' to wear the 'cap' of that job.

Visual Association

Imagine a person holding a large container (capacity) that is full of tools and skills. This person is 'capable' because they have the 'room' for all those abilities.

Word Web

Ability Power Skill Potential Competence Reliability Capacity Efficiency

Challenge

Try to use 'capable of' in three different sentences today: one about a person, one about a machine, and one about yourself.

Word Origin

Derived from the Late Latin 'capabilis', which comes from the Latin verb 'capere', meaning 'to take, catch, or hold'. It entered English in the 16th century via French.

Original meaning: The original sense was 'able to take or hold' (capacity), which evolved into the modern sense of having the power or ability to do something.

Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > English.

Cultural Context

Be careful when using 'incapable' as it can be very insulting. 'Not capable of' is slightly softer but still strong.

In the US and UK, 'capable' is a standard word for professional recommendations. It sounds objective and respectful.

The concept of the 'Capable Subject' by philosopher Paul Ricoeur. The 'Capability Maturity Model' (CMM) used in software engineering. The phrase 'in capable hands' is a staple of political and corporate rhetoric.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Workplace/Professional

highly capable employee
capable of managing
proven capable
in capable hands

Technology/Machines

capable of processing
technically capable
system capability
maximum capability

Personal Growth

capable of change
perfectly capable
more than capable
feel capable

Legal/Medical

mentally capable
legally capable
physically capable
lacks capability

Character Description

capable of anything
capable of lying
a capable woman
capable of great things

Conversation Starters

"Do you think most people are capable of changing their basic personality?"

"What is a skill you didn't think you were capable of learning, but you did?"

"Who is the most capable person you have ever worked with, and why?"

"Do you believe modern technology is capable of solving the climate crisis?"

"Are you perfectly capable of cooking a three-course meal for ten people?"

Journal Prompts

Write about a time you proved you were more than capable of handling a difficult situation.

Reflect on a skill you are currently working on. What makes you capable of mastering it?

Describe a person you know who is 'highly capable'. What specific qualities do they have?

Is there anything you feel you are currently incapable of doing? How could you change that?

Discuss the phrase 'capable of anything'. In what contexts is this a good or bad thing?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It is always 'capable of'. You should follow it with a gerund (verb + ing) or a noun. For example, 'She is capable of winning' is correct, while 'She is capable to win' is incorrect. This is one of the most common mistakes for English learners.

While they are similar, 'able' is usually followed by 'to' and often refers to a specific, current ability. 'Capable' is followed by 'of' and often refers to a more general potential or a deeper level of competence. 'I am able to swim' vs 'I am capable of swimming across the lake'.

Yes, 'capable of' can describe the potential for negative actions. For example, 'He is capable of lying' or 'She is capable of great cruelty'. The phrase 'capable of anything' often has a negative or dangerous connotation.

This is an idiom meaning that a situation or task is being managed by someone who is competent and reliable. It is used to reassure people. For example, 'Don't worry about the project; it's in capable hands'.

It is more formal than 'can' or 'good at', but it is very common in both professional and neutral everyday English. It is especially common in job descriptions, performance reviews, and technical manuals.

The noun form is 'capability' (singular) or 'capabilities' (plural). It refers to the power or ability to do something. For example, 'The company is expanding its technological capabilities'.

The direct opposite is 'incapable'. Other antonyms include 'incompetent', 'unable', and 'inept', depending on the context.

You use it to describe the machine's features or limits. For example, 'This printer is capable of printing 50 pages per minute' or 'The car is capable of reaching high speeds'.

It is an emphatic way of saying someone has all the necessary skills and doesn't need help. It's often used when someone is being over-protective. 'I'm perfectly capable of doing my own laundry!'

Yes, you can use it to modify a noun directly. For example, 'She is a capable lawyer' or 'We need a capable leader'. In this case, it means the person is generally skilled and reliable.