What is able? Pronunciation and usage in English

able means . Learn how to pronounce and use able through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of able

ableadjective

/ˈeɪbl/
Definition & pronunciation of able

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "able" in English. It's a tricky one for some learners! Here's a breakdown:

The most common and generally accepted pronunciation is:

  • /ˈeɪbəl/ (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet)

Let's break that down further:

  • ˈeɪ: This is the key! It’s a diphthong – a gliding vowel sound. Think of it like saying “ay” as in the word “say.” It's a short, bright sound.
  • b: As in “boy” – a standard, simple ‘b’ sound.
  • əl: This is a schwa sound (ə). It’s the most common vowel sound in English and is a very short, neutral sound. It's like the “a” in “about.”

Putting it together, it sounds like: “Aye-bull” (but without the “w” sound at the end!)

Here's how it sounds:

  • Listen on Forvo: https://www.forvo.com/word/able/ (Forvo is a great website to hear words pronounced by native speakers.)
  • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce able" on YouTube. You'll find many helpful videos.

Common Mistakes & What to Avoid:

  • Don't pronounce “uh” in the middle: Avoid making it sound like “a-buh-luh.” The “uh” sound is incorrect.
  • Don’t add a "w" sound: Don't say "ay-bull."

Resources to Practice:

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • Are you learning English for a specific region (e.g., American English, British English)? Pronunciation can vary slightly.

Usage and examples with the word able in English

Let's break down how to use the word "able" in English. It's a versatile word that primarily expresses capability or skill, but it can also have slightly different nuances.

1. As an Adjective (Most Common Use - Expressing Ability):

This is by far the most frequent way "able" is used. It describes someone or something that can do something.

  • Structure: adjective able (often contracted to able to)
  • Examples:
    • “She is able to speak three languages.” (She has the skill to speak three languages.)
    • “The computer is able to handle large files.” (The computer has the capacity to manage large files.)
    • “He’s able to run a marathon.” (He possesses the fitness and skill necessary to run a marathon.)
    • “We are able to finish the project on time.” (We have the ability and resources to complete the project on schedule.)
    • “I'm able to help you with that.” (I have the capacity or skill to assist you.)

2. As an Adverb (Often Combined with "to"):

You'll often see "able to" used together. It emphasizes the possibility of doing something.

  • Structure: able to + verb
  • Examples:
    • “They are able to travel next week.” (They have the possibility/permission/means to travel.)
    • “I’m able to understand the instructions now.” (I have the ability to understand the instructions.)
    • “Is he able to come to the meeting?” (Can he participate in the meeting?)

3. In Phrases (Less Common):

  • “Able-bodied”: Describes someone who is healthy and physically capable. "He was an able-bodied soldier."
  • “Able to do”: Used after a question or request to inquire about someone's capability. "Are you able to do that task?”

4. Synonyms and Related Words:

  • Capable: Very similar to “able.” “She’s a capable leader.”
  • Competent: Means having the necessary skills and knowledge. “He’s a competent mechanic.”
  • Qualified: Means possessing the necessary qualifications or training. “She is qualified to teach.”
  • Skillful: Emphasizes having a specific skill. “He's a skillful pianist.”

Key Differences and Nuances:

  • "Able" vs. "Can": “Can” often implies immediacy or a spontaneous action. “Able” suggests a more inherent or developed ability.

    • Example: "I can swim" (I know how to swim and can do it now). “I am able to swim” (I have the ability to swim; I've been trained).

  • "Able to" vs. “Capable of”: Both indicate ability, but "capable of" can often suggest a greater potential or a more profound ability. "He's capable of great things."

Let’s test your understanding! Fill in the blanks with “able” or “able to”:

  1. The new software is _____ to process large amounts of data.
  2. She was _____ to dance gracefully at the ball.
  3. Are you _____ to help me with this project?
  4. He’s _____ a good student.

Answers:

  1. able
  2. able to
  3. able to
  4. able

Do you want me to:

  • Give you more examples?
  • Explain a specific nuance of "able" in more detail?
  • Create some exercises for you to practice using "able"?

Synonyms for the word able

Comment ()