What is capable? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of capable

capableadjective

/ˈkeɪpəbl/
Definition & pronunciation of capable

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "capable" in English. Here's a breakdown with phonetic symbols and a more conversational explanation:

1. Phonetic Symbols (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet):

  • /ˈkæpəbl̩/

Let's break that down:

  • ˈ - This indicates primary stress – it’s on the first syllable.
  • kæ - Sounds like "cap" as in "cap" and "a" as in "apple." (Think of a short, quick "ah" sound)
  • pə - The “p” is a soft "p" (like in "pin"). The “ə” is a schwa sound – a very short, neutral vowel sound, like the "a" in "about" or "sofa".
  • bl̩ - “bl” is pronounced like “bl” as in “blue”. The “l” is syllabic— meaning it carries the stress of the syllable. It's a bit longer and more emphasized than a regular "l".

2. A More Conversational Explanation:

Here's how to say it, step-by-step:

  1. "Cap": Say the word "cap," focusing on a quick, short "ah" sound (like in "apple").
  2. "Able": Add an "ble" sound to the end, but soften the "p" sound. It should almost feel like a single sound. The "ble" part is a bit blended with the "cap" sound. The "a" in "able" is a short, quick "a" (like in "apple").
  3. Stress: Make sure you put most of your emphasis on the first syllable ("cap").

3. Tips for Getting It Right:

  • Don't over-articulate the "p": Reduce the "p" sound significantly. It’s almost a “b” sound.
  • The schwa "ə" is key: That short, neutral "uh" sound in the middle feels a bit like you're saying "uh-bable." Don’t try to pronounce a full "a" sound here.
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it spoken. Here are some resources:
    • Google Translate: Type “capable” into Google Translate, and click the speaker icon.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/capable/ – This site has pronunciations from native speakers.
    • YouTube: Search "how to pronounce capable" on YouTube – You'll find many videos demonstrating the pronunciation.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you another example word and its pronunciation?

Usage and examples with the word capable in English

Let's break down how to use the word "capable" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different shades of meaning. Here's a comprehensive guide:

1. Core Meaning: Having the Ability or Skill

  • Definition: At its most basic, “capable” means having the ability, skill, or quality to do something.
  • Examples:
    • "She is capable of handling the project alone." (She has the skills and ability.)
    • "He's capable of great kindness." (He possesses the quality of kindness.)
    • "The new software is capable of processing large amounts of data." (It has the technical ability.)

2. Using "Capable Of..."

  • This is a very common structure. It emphasizes potential or ability.
  • Examples:
    • "He's capable of great things." (Suggests he has the potential.)
    • "The system is capable of running multiple applications simultaneously." (It can handle that task.)
    • "The bridge is capable of supporting heavy loads." (It’s designed with that ability.)

3. "Capable In..." – Showing Skill Within a Specific Area

  • This indicates someone's proficiency or skill within a particular area.
  • Examples:
    • "He's capable in mathematics." (He's good at math.)
    • "She’s capable in public speaking." (She's a skilled speaker.)
    • "The machine is capable in precision engineering." (It's good at creating things with a high degree of accuracy).

4. "Capable Of" as a Test or Evaluation

  • Sometimes "capable of" is used in the context of a test or assessment to see if someone can do something.
  • Example:
    • "The new employee proved to be capable of quickly learning the company's procedures." (They showed they could learn quickly.)

5. Figurative Usage – Less Literal

  • Occasionally, "capable" can be used more abstractly, referring to a person’s character or disposition.
  • Example:
    • "She’s a capable leader." (Implies she’s strong, decisive, and effective).

6. Synonyms & Related Words

  • Able: Very similar in meaning. “He is able to do it.”
  • Qualified: Suggests having the necessary training and skills. “She is qualified for the job.”
  • Competent: Means having the necessary skills and knowledge to do something well.
  • Fit: Suggests suitability or appropriateness. “He’s fit for the role.”

7. Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don’t overuse it: While “capable” is useful, sometimes simpler words like “able” or “skilled” work better.
  • Context is key: Ensure the meaning fits the context of your sentence.

Let's Practice!

Here are a few sentences where you can try to use "capable" correctly:

  1. “The team is capable of achieving its goals.”
  2. “This camera is capable of taking stunning photographs.”
  3. “He is capable in coding complex software.”
  4. “She proved to be capable of handling difficult clients.” (Figurative)

To help me tailor the explanation even further, could you tell me:

  • What kind of context are you thinking about? (e.g., writing an essay, having a conversation, studying for a test)
  • Are there any specific situations where you’ve struggled to use “capable” correctly?

Synonyms for the word capable

Practice with vocabulary capable

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. She is _____ of handling complex projects under tight deadlines.
  2. The team demonstrated that they were _____ of solving the problem efficiently.
  3. His _____ approach to the situation helped calm everyone down.
  4. The software is designed to be _____ of processing large datasets quickly.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which word best describes someone who can achieve difficult tasks?
    a) Capable
    b) Reluctant
    c) Confused
    d) Hesitant

  2. What does "capable" imply in a professional setting?
    a) Having the ability to perform tasks effectively
    b) Being overly confident
    c) Lacking experience
    d) Avoiding responsibilities

  3. Which of the following words are synonyms of "capable"? (Choose all that apply)
    a) Competent
    b) Incapable
    c) Skilled
    d) Inept

  4. Which word fits best: "She was _____ of making quick decisions in high-pressure situations"?
    a) Able
    b) Capable
    c) Unprepared
    d) Confused

  5. Which word does NOT fit: "The new employee proved to be _____ during the training session"?
    a) Efficient
    b) Capable
    c) Inadequate
    d) Proficient

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: He has the ability to manage multiple teams at once.
    Rewrite: He is capable of managing multiple teams at once.

  2. Original: The machine can process up to 1000 units per hour.
    Rewrite: The machine is capable of processing up to 1000 units per hour.

  3. Original: She showed that she could adapt to new challenges quickly.
    Rewrite: She demonstrated her adaptability in facing new challenges quickly.

Answer:

Exercise 1:

  1. capable
  2. capable
  3. reasonable
  4. capable

Exercise 2:

  1. a) Capable
  2. a) Having the ability to perform tasks effectively
  3. a) Competent, c) Skilled
  4. b) Capable
  5. c) Inadequate

Exercise 3:

  1. He is capable of managing multiple teams at once.
  2. The machine is capable of processing up to 1000 units per hour.
  3. She demonstrated her adaptability in facing new challenges quickly.

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