Enable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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enable
[ɪˈneɪbl ]
Definitions
technology
To make something possible or to allow something to happen.
Synonyms
authorize, empower, facilitate, permit.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| enable |
Use 'enable' when you mean to give the means or opportunity to do something, often by providing tools, resources, or conditions needed for it.
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| empower |
Use 'empower' when you mean to give someone the authority or power to do something, often to help them feel more confident and in control of their life or situation.
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| facilitate |
Use 'facilitate' when you mean to make an action or process easier or less difficult, often by organizing or guiding it.
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| authorize |
Use 'authorize' when you mean to give official or legal permission for something to happen or for someone to do something.
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| permit |
Use 'permit' when you mean to officially allow someone to do something, often used in more formal contexts and can sometimes imply reluctance or strict conditions.
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Examples of usage
- Enabling the new feature will improve the user experience.
- Please enable cookies in your browser settings to access the website.
- The software update will enable better compatibility with older devices.
personal development
To give someone the authority or means to do something.
Synonyms
allow, authorize, empower, facilitate.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| enable |
When discussing the provision of the means or capability to do something.
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| empower |
When giving someone the authority or power to do something, often to inspire or give confidence.
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| authorize |
When giving formal or official permission, often in a legal or administrative context.
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| facilitate |
When making an action or process easier or more manageable.
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| allow |
When giving permission or making it possible for someone to do something.
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Examples of usage
- His encouragement enabled her to pursue her dreams.
- The scholarship enabled him to attend college.
- The grant enabled the research team to conduct experiments.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Technology
- In computing, to enable a feature means to turn it on, allowing users to access more functionalities.
- Many accessibility tools are designed to enable people with disabilities to use technology more effectively.
- Web browsers often include settings that allow users to enable or disable cookies for better privacy control.
Education
- Teaching methods that enable student participation foster better learning experiences.
- Interactive technologies in classrooms are used to enable students to learn at their own pace.
- Many educational programs aim to enable critical thinking skills in young learners.
Psychology
- In psychology, enabling behavior can sometimes refer to actions that support negative habits instead of helping individuals improve.
- Positive reinforcement techniques aim to enable desired behaviors by rewarding them.
- Cognitive-behavioral strategies are designed to enable individuals to change their negative thought patterns.
Art
- Artists often create works that enable viewers to see things from a new perspective.
- Interactive art installations invite the audience to engage and enable a deeper emotional connection.
- The concept of enabling creativity is central to many educational art programs, encouraging originality and expression.
Origin of 'enable'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'habilitare', meaning 'to make able'.
- It first appeared in English in the late 15th century, originally used in legal contexts.
- Over time, its use expanded beyond legal terminology to encompass general empowerments.
The word 'enable' originated from the Old French word 'enabler', which means 'to make able'. The term has been used in English since the 15th century. Over time, 'enable' has come to signify granting someone the power or ability to accomplish something, whether in a technological context or personal development. It conveys the idea of empowering and facilitating actions or processes.