able

The word "able" is almost always used with "be" and "to." Together these words form a verb phrase. When a person can do something or has the ability or time to do something, use "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?

Sometimes "be able to" appears with modal verbs or other verb phrases:

• 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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December 14, 2011