be capable of

/biː ˈkeɪpəbəl əv/
verb phrase★Intermediate
general

To have the ability, skill, or capacity to do something

Modern computers are capable of processing vast amounts of data.

This means they have the technical ability to handle large data sets.

He is not capable of understanding advanced mathematics.

This means he lacks the ability to comprehend complex math concepts.

💡

This phrase is often used to describe someone's skills, abilities, or the capabilities of systems or objects.

Collocations

be capable of doingused to specify the action someone or something can performbe capable of handlingused to describe the ability to manage or deal with something

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

be able tophrase
to have the ability to do something
be skilled atphrase
to be good at a particular activity

💡Pro Tip

Formal vs. Informal Use

While 'be capable of' is more formal, 'be able to' is more commonly used in everyday conversation.

⚡Gold Rule

Correct Usage

Use 'be capable of' to describe abilities, not desires or preferences.

📖Word Origin

The word 'capable' comes from the Latin 'capabilis', meaning 'able to hold or contain', from 'capere' meaning 'to take or hold'.

📝Usage Notes

This phrase is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to describe abilities. It can refer to physical, mental, or technical capabilities.

Word Breakdown

be
to exist or have a certain quality
verb
+
capable
having the ability or power to do something
adjective
+
of
indicates the relationship between the subject and the action
preposition
English Dictionary