Capable means having the necessary skill, power, or potential to achieve a goal.
Word in 30 Seconds
- Having the ability or power to do something.
- Describes someone who is efficient and skilled.
- Often used with the preposition of.
Overview
The adjective 'capable' is a versatile term used to express competence and potential. It serves as a fundamental descriptor for both human talent and mechanical functionality. When you say someone is 'capable,' you are affirming their reliability and skill set.
Usage Patterns
'Capable' is most commonly followed by the preposition 'of' and a gerund (verb + -ing). For example, 'She is capable of solving complex problems.' It can also be used as a standalone adjective before a noun, as in 'a capable assistant,' which implies the person is efficient and well-qualified.
Common Contexts
In professional settings, 'capable' is frequently used in performance reviews or job descriptions to highlight a candidate's effectiveness. In everyday conversation, it is used to describe potential, such as 'The engine is capable of reaching high speeds.' It is a positive, neutral term that avoids the hyperbole of words like 'perfect' or 'brilliant,' focusing instead on the practical ability to get the job done.
Similar Words Comparison
While 'capable' focuses on the inherent ability to perform, 'competent' suggests meeting a required standard of efficiency. 'Able' is a direct synonym but is often used for shorter-term tasks, whereas 'capable' implies a more permanent trait or a greater depth of potential. 'Qualified' implies that one has the necessary credentials or training, rather than just the natural or developed ability.
Examples
He is a very capable mechanic.
everydayÉl es un mecánico muy capaz.
The software is capable of processing large files.
formalEl software es capaz de procesar archivos grandes.
I'm sure she's capable of doing it on her own.
informalEstoy seguro de que ella es capaz de hacerlo sola.
The research team is capable of delivering results by Friday.
academicEl equipo de investigación es capaz de entregar resultados para el viernes.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
capable of anything
capaz de cualquier cosa
fully capable
totalmente capaz
perfectly capable
perfectamente capaz
Often Confused With
Able is often used for specific, temporary situations, whereas capable refers to a more general or inherent quality.
Capacity is a noun referring to the maximum amount or potential, while capable is the adjective describing the possession of that potential.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
Capable is a neutral and professional word that fits almost any context. It is most commonly used with the preposition 'of' followed by a gerund. Avoid using 'capable to' as it is grammatically incorrect in standard English.
Common Mistakes
The most common error is saying 'capable to do' instead of 'capable of doing'. Another mistake is using 'very' excessively, as 'capable' already implies a strong degree of ability. Ensure you do not confuse the adjective 'capable' with the noun 'capability'.
Tips
Use of + gerund
Always remember to use the -ing form of the verb after 'capable of'. For example, say 'capable of running' instead of 'capable of run'.
Avoid double adjectives
Avoid saying 'very capable of'. Since capable already implies a high level of ability, adding 'very' is often redundant.
Professional feedback
In Western workplace culture, calling someone a 'very capable person' is a high compliment. It suggests they are independent and trustworthy.
Word Origin
The word originates from the Latin 'capabilis', which comes from 'capere', meaning 'to take' or 'to hold'. It essentially means having the capacity to hold or contain the necessary skills.
Cultural Context
In many English-speaking corporate cultures, being called 'capable' is a standard way to praise an employee's reliability. It is often seen as a prerequisite for promotion.
Memory Tip
Think of the 'Cap' in 'Capable' as a 'Captain'—a captain is always capable of steering the ship.
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsThey are very similar, but 'able' often refers to a specific, immediate task. 'Capable' often suggests a broader, more permanent quality or potential.
Yes, it is perfectly acceptable to describe machines or software as capable. It means the system has the technical capacity to perform certain functions.
It is a neutral term that works well in both professional and casual environments. It is neither overly academic nor overly slangy.
The most common preposition is 'of'. You are 'capable of' doing something.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence with the correct form.
She is highly ___ of managing the team effectively.
The sentence requires an adjective to describe the subject, and 'capable' fits the grammatical structure.
Choose the best synonym.
Which word is closest in meaning to 'capable'?
Competent means having the necessary ability, knowledge, or skill to do something successfully.
Rearrange the words to form a correct sentence.
is / of / he / complex / capable / tasks / handling
The standard structure for this sentence follows Subject + Verb + Adjective + Prepositional Phrase.
🎉 Score: /3
Summary
Capable means having the necessary skill, power, or potential to achieve a goal.
- Having the ability or power to do something.
- Describes someone who is efficient and skilled.
- Often used with the preposition of.
Use of + gerund
Always remember to use the -ing form of the verb after 'capable of'. For example, say 'capable of running' instead of 'capable of run'.
Avoid double adjectives
Avoid saying 'very capable of'. Since capable already implies a high level of ability, adding 'very' is often redundant.
Professional feedback
In Western workplace culture, calling someone a 'very capable person' is a high compliment. It suggests they are independent and trustworthy.
Examples
4 of 4He is a very capable mechanic.
Él es un mecánico muy capaz.
The software is capable of processing large files.
El software es capaz de procesar archivos grandes.
I'm sure she's capable of doing it on her own.
Estoy seguro de que ella es capaz de hacerlo sola.
The research team is capable of delivering results by Friday.
El equipo de investigación es capaz de entregar resultados para el viernes.
