Was able to Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ช
was able to
[wษz หeษชbษl tuห ]
Definition
past simple
To have the necessary power, skill, or opportunity to do something.
Synonyms
adept, capable, competent, skilled.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| was able to |
Use this phrase when describing someone's ability to do something in the past.
|
| capable |
Use this word to describe someone who has the ability or qualities necessary for doing something, typically in a general sense.
|
| competent |
This word is suitable for describing someone who is adequately qualified or has a sufficient level of skill to perform a task.
|
| skilled |
Use this word to describe someone who has acquired a high level of proficiency through training or practice.
|
| adept |
This word is best used to describe someone who is highly skilled or proficient in a particular area. It often has a specialized or expert connotation.
|
Examples of usage
- He was able to finish the project on time.
- I was able to meet the deadline thanks to the team's hard work.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Grammar
- 'Was able to' is often used in the past tense, unlike 'can' which refers to present ability.
- This phrase emphasizes a specific instance of ability, contrasting with general statements such as 'can' or 'is able to.'
Usage in Literature
- Classic literature often uses 'was able to' to depict characters overcoming obstacles, illustrating growth or change.
- In modern writing, this phrase conveys a sense of achievement or success after adversity, popular in personal narratives.
Cultural Significance
- The phrase suggests agency and empowerment, often found in motivational speeches to highlight achievement despite challenges.
- In many cultures, recounting moments when one 'was able to' do something serves to inspire and illustrate perseverance.
Psychological Insights
- Using phrases like 'was able to' can boost self-esteem by prompting individuals to reflect on past successes.
- Cognitive therapy often encourages reviewing moments of capability as a way to build resilience and cope with difficulties.
Origin of 'was able to'
Main points about word origin
- The phrase combines the past tense of 'to be' (was) with the word 'able,' derived from Latin 'habilis,' meaning handy or fit.
- This structure reflects the shift from potential ability to realized ability, commonly used in storytelling to show character growth.
The phrase 'was able to' originates from the Old English word 'ฤbilan', meaning 'to have power or ability'. Over time, the phrase evolved to its current form in Modern English, becoming a commonly used expression to indicate capability or opportunity.