Capable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

👍

Add to dictionary

capable

[ˈkeɪpəbl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

ability

Having the ability, fitness, or quality necessary to do or achieve a specified thing.

Synonyms

able, competent, proficient, skilled.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
capable	Used to describe someone who has the potential or ability to do something successfully. It is often used in general contexts and focuses on the inherent ability. She is capable of handling difficult situations.
competent	Refers to someone having the necessary skills or knowledge to do something successfully, often used in professional or formal settings. She is a competent engineer with five years of experience. The doctor is highly competent in his field.
skilled	Highlights a person’s developed abilities or skills in particular tasks, often through experience or training. John is a skilled carpenter. She is skilled at negotiating deals.
able	Often used to describe someone’s general ability or qualification to perform a task or action. It is a bit more formal than 'capable'. He is able to speak three languages fluently. Are you able to finish the project by Friday?
proficient	Describes a high degree of skill or expertise in a specific area, usually due to significant practice or training. He’s proficient in computer programming. She is proficient at playing the piano.

Examples of usage

He is a very capable leader.
She is capable of handling multiple tasks at once.
Despite his young age, he is very capable of running the company efficiently.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

potential

Having the potential to become or accomplish something.

Synonyms

able, competent, qualified, skilled.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
capable	Used to describe someone who has the ability to do something efficiently and effectively. Often implies that the person can handle difficult tasks. She is a capable manager who always meets her deadlines
able	A general term to say that someone has the power, skill, or means to do something. He is able to lift heavy weights
competent	Describes someone who is adequately skilled and proficient in a particular area. Often used in professional or educational contexts. The surgeon is highly competent and well-respected
qualified	Used when someone has the necessary credentials, certifications, or experience for a specific task or job. She is qualified for the teaching position
skilled	Highlights that someone has special training, abilities, or experience in a particular field, often involving hands-on tasks. He is a skilled carpenter who can build anything

Examples of usage

She is a capable student and has the potential to excel in her studies.
With proper training, he can become a capable athlete.
The team is capable of winning the championship.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Believing oneself to be capable can boost confidence and motivation, influencing personal success.
Studies show that self-efficacy, or the belief in one's capabilities, greatly impacts achievement levels.
Capability is often linked with growth mindset, emphasizing learning from challenges rather than fearing failure.

Education

Educational frameworks emphasize building a capable learner who can problem-solve and adapt.
Teaching methods today focus on nurturing capabilities rather than just imparting knowledge.
Skill development is seen as essential to preparing students for a rapidly changing job market.

Pop Culture

Superheroes are often portrayed as capable, embodying maximum potential and strength in their characters.
In movies, a capable protagonist usually overcomes immense challenges, inspiring viewers.
The phrase 'capable hands' is often used in professions to denote skilled and reliable workers.

Technology

Emerging technologies are designed to enhance human capabilities, making tasks easier and faster.
Artificial intelligence aims to complement human capabilities, opening new possibilities in various fields.
The term 'capable' is often used in tech to describe systems or devices that can perform advanced functions.

Origin of 'capable'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Latin 'capabilis', which means 'able to take or hold'.
It evolved into English through Old French, highlighting its linguistic journey across cultures.
It has roots in the word 'capere', which means 'to seize' or 'to take'.

The word 'capable' originated from the Latin word 'capabilis', which means 'able to take in' or 'receptive'. The term evolved over time in English to refer to having the ability or skill to do something. The concept of capability has been essential in assessing individuals' potential and competence in various fields.

See also: cap, capacity, cape, caplet, caps, capstone, recap.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,571, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.

...
1568 discovered
1569 native
1570 anyone
1571 capable
1572 experimental
1573 necessity
1574 expense
...