The phrase "to be capable of doing something" is a formal way to describe someone's ability, power, or potential to achieve a task.
While it is similar to saying "can" or "be able to," it often implies having the necessary skills, mental strength, or physical power required for a specific challenge.
The Sentence Structure
The structure follows a strict grammatical pattern:
[Subject] + [Verb "to be"] + capable + of + [Gerund (Verb + -ing)]
Subject: The person or thing with the ability.
Verb "to be": Am, is, are, was, were, will be, etc.
Capable of: This is a fixed adjective phrase. You must use "of," never "to."
Gerund: The action must end in -ing because it follows a preposition ("of").
Key Rule: Never say "capable ~~to do~~." It is always "capable of doing."
10 Examples of "Capable of Doing Something"
- Human Skill: She is capable of speaking four languages fluently.
- Technology: This new software is capable of processing millions of data points per second.
- Workplace: He proved he was capable of managing a large team under pressure.
- Physical Strength: An Olympic lifter is capable of lifting twice their own body weight.
- Nature: Some plants are capable of surviving for months without water.
- Future Potential: With enough training, you will be capable of running a full marathon.
- Mental Fortitude: I didn't think I was capable of forgiving him, but I eventually did.
- Mechanical Power: The engine is capable of reaching speeds of over 200 miles per hour.
- Negative/Criminal (Common Use): The police believe the suspect is capable of committing a violent crime.
- Scientific Fact: Human ears are not capable of hearing certain high-pitched frequencies.
Comparison: Capable vs. Ability
It is helpful to see how this structure differs from the word "ability," which is a noun:
| Structure | Example |
|---|---|
| Capable of + -ing | "He is capable of solving the puzzle." |
| Ability + to [Verb] | "He has the ability to solve the puzzle." |