December 14, 2011 - Word of the Day: (be) able to

When a person can do something or has the ability or time to do something, use the verb phrase "be able to" to describe the situation. It's very similar to "can."

• She's able to speak English. (She can speak English.)
• He isn't able to finish his work. (He can't finish his work.)
• We're able to donate money to that organization.
• I'm not able to see you today.
• Why aren't you able to help me?

So, this word isn't too difficult to use, but sometimes it appears with modal verbs or idiomatic modal verbs, and then it's not so easy to use:

• Tom has to be able to use his computer.
• Sarah wants to be able to leave work early today. (She wants permission from her supervisor.)
• Are you going to be able to get your homework finished?
• If you want this job you must be able to speak English well.

"Be able to" is often used at the end of a sentence in the negative:

• He wanted to go to the party, but he wasn't able to.
• I'd love to see you, but I'm not able to.
• The police officer told her to move her car, but she wasn't able to. The battery was dead.

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