enable
Definitions
To give someone the ability or means to do something; to make possible
使能够；使成为可能
To switch on or activate a feature or function (in computing)
（计算机）启用，开启
Root Breakdown
Root-deriveden- (to make) + able = to make able. To enable someone is to give them the power or means to act. In tech it sharpened into 'turn a feature on' — i.e. make it able to run.
Root abil still carries 16 more wordsCommon Collocations
- 1.enable someone to使某人能够
- 2.enable access启用访问权限
- 3.enable feature启用功能
- 4.enable growth促成增长
Example Sentences
- 1.
The grant will enable us to expand the program.
- 2.
New software enables remote teams to work together.
- 3.
Enable two-factor authentication for extra security.
Easily Confused
enable vs allow — Both can mean 'make possible,' but enable provides the active power or means to do something (the tool enables you to edit), while allow chiefly removes a barrier or grants permission (the rules allow you to edit). Give the means → enable; give the permission → allow.