Capable: Mastering a Key IELTS Vocabulary Word
Learn the meaning, usage, and nuances of the word ‘capable’. This video covers its definition, word type, history, synonyms, antonyms, and common usage errors to help you use it effectively in IELTS speaking and writing tasks.
Imagine you’re faced with a challenging task at work or school. You pause and wonder, can I handle this?
That’s where our word of the day comes in: capable.
Word type: Capable is an adjective. We use it to describe people or things.
Meaning: Capable means having the ability, fitness, or quality necessary to do or achieve a specified thing.
It describes someone or something that has the power to perform or accomplish something.
Word history:
The word capable comes from the Latin word capabilis, which means able to grasp or hold. This root gives us a mental image of someone who can grab onto and manage tasks or responsibilities.
Antonyms: To better understand capable, let’s look at its opposites. Some antonyms are incapable, incompetent, and unqualified.
Synonyms: Now for words with similar meanings. Synonyms for capable include able, competent, skilled, and proficient.
Examples use in sentences: Let’s see how we can use capable in different contexts. She is a highly capable manager who always meets her deadlines.
The new software is capable of processing data much faster than the old one. Despite his young age, he proved capable of handling the pressure of the competition.
Are you capable of working independently on this project? Common errors in use: Be careful not to confuse capable with able.
While they’re similar, capable often implies potential or an innate quality, while able suggests a more immediate readiness.
For example, He is capable of running a marathon implies he has the potential, while He is able to run a marathon suggests he can do it right now.
Also, remember that capable is usually followed by of when describing a specific ability. We say capable of doing something, not capable to do something.
To wrap up, capable is a versatile and useful word for describing skills and abilities. It’s particularly valuable in academic and professional contexts, making it an excellent addition to your IELTS vocabulary.
Practice using it in your speaking and writing to demonstrate your language proficiency.
