WordGarden.iocapable
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /kˈeɪpəbəl/
US
- /ˈkeɪpəbəl/
Meanings
Adjective
having the ability or capacity to do something
competent and effective at doing something
Beyond the definition
To be capable means to have the ability, skill, or power to do something successfully. For instance, a capable driver can navigate tricky roads, a capable student excels in their studies, and a capable leader inspires others. It's more than just being able—it suggests possessing the qualities needed for effective action. You might describe someone as "highly capable" if they consistently deliver excellent results. Think of a Swiss Army knife—it's capable of many things!
Sometimes "capable" hints at potential, even if it isn't fully realized yet. A young athlete might be described as "capable of greatness," meaning they have the inherent talent to achieve something significant with training and effort. And it can be used neutrally—even ominously—in phrases like "capable of harm," focusing on what someone or something could do. It's about having what it takes, whether already demonstrated or waiting to bloom.
The word "capable" describes someone or something that has the ability, quality, or strength to do a particular thing well. It's more than just being able—it implies competence and effectiveness. For example: "She is a capable surgeon with years of experience," meaning she possesses the skill and knowledge necessary for successful operations.
"Capable" can also refer to capacity or potential, especially in the common pattern "capable of + -ing." A powerful engine is "capable of high speeds," while a resilient material is "capable of withstanding extreme temperatures." This suggests an inherent ability, even if it isn't currently being used. You might say, "The new technology is capable of revolutionizing the industry," meaning it has the potential to bring about significant change. The same pattern can describe actions that are unexpected or negative: "He's capable of lying," or "The chemical is capable of causing damage."
Interestingly, "capable" can also be used in a more nuanced way to describe someone's character. A "capable person" isn't just skilled; they are often reliable, resourceful, and able to handle challenges effectively. They possess qualities like intelligence, determination, and good judgment.
You might hear it used in phrases like "fully capable" (meaning completely competent) or "more than capable" (emphasizing a high level of skill). It's often a positive attribute, suggesting strength, competence, and the potential for success. So whether you're describing a person's skills, an object's power, or what someone might do under pressure, if something is "capable," it has what it needs to make an outcome possible.
Examples
- 1
Teaching ability
Sara is a capable teacher who explains difficult ideas clearly.
- 2
Technical ability
This laptop is capable of running the software smoothly.
- Patterncapable of + -ing verb
able to do it
- 3
Physical skill
After a few months of training, he's capable of swimming across the lake.
- 4
Work quality
I know you're capable of better work than this.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Under stress
When he's under a lot of stress, he's capable of saying things he doesn't really mean.
- 6
Reliable management
Leave the planning to Mei; the event is in capable hands.
- Phrasein capable hands
being handled by someone skilled and reliable
- 7
Leadership ability
She seems quiet, but she's more than capable of leading the whole team.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
- proficient
- equipped
- up to the task
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- capable of
- perfectly capable
- highly capable
- capable hands
Word family
- capability
- capably
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- capableadjective