capable

Definitions

cap (from capere, 'take, hold') + -able. The original idea is 'able to take hold of' — a capable person can 'grasp' and handle a task. The same root sense of holding/containing shows up in capacity (how much it can hold).

Why It Means This

Think of capability as having a big enough grip. Capere meant 'to take hold,' so capable literally means you can get a grip on a task. 'Capable of' stretches this to potential: the engine is capable of 200 mph — it can 'take on' that speed. The dark side too: he's capable of lying means he could grasp/do even that.

Common Collocations

• 1.fully capable完全有能力
• 2.highly capable非常能干
• 3.capable of doing能够做……
• 4.more than capable绰绰有余

Example Sentences

• 1.

  She is a highly capable manager who handles pressure well.

• 2.

  This camera is capable of recording in 4K.

• 3.

  I had no idea he was capable of such cruelty.

Easily Confused

capable vs able — 'able to' just states a fact (I'm able to swim). 'capable of' often stresses skill or potential, and takes a noun or -ing form (capable of great work / capable of winning). Use 'capable of', not 'capable to.'

Synonym Comparison