able
/ˈeɪbəl/adjective★Intermediate
formal
Having sufficient strength, skill, or resources to do something.
She is able to speak three languages fluently.
He is able to lift heavy weights.
informal
Having the necessary qualities or abilities to do something.
The team is able to work well under pressure.
The new employee is able to adapt quickly to the company culture.
Collocations
able tohaving the ability or skill to do somethingbe able toto have the power, skill, or resources to do something
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related Phrases
enableverb
to make someone able to do something
disableverb
to make someone unable to do something
💡Pro Tip
Usage tip
Use 'able' to describe someone's ability to do something, e.g., 'She is able to play the piano.'.
⚡Gold Rule
Grammar rule
Use 'able' with 'to' + verb, e.g., 'I am able to speak English.'
📖Word Origin
From Old French 'able', from Latin 'habilis', from 'habere' (to have).
📝Usage Notes
Often used with 'to' + verb, e.g., 'able to do something'.
Word Breakdown
able
having the power or ability
root✎ Noted on May 2, 2026EN → EN