capable — meaning in English: able

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capable

telle

comportement

mis

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use 'capable' when discussing someone's abilities in personal or professional settings. For example, a manager might say, 'Je sais que vous êtes capable de mener ce projet à bien,' which translates to 'I know you are able to carry this project through successfully.' It's also commonly used in educational contexts when teachers express confidence in a student's potential.

Synonyms & nuances

'Capable' is often used interchangeably with 'apt' or 'compétent,' but it carries a broader connotation of having the potential to do something. While 'apt' emphasizes a natural talent, 'capable' indicates a more general ability that can be developed over time.

Culture

'Capable' comes from the Latin 'capabilis,' which means 'able to hold or receive.' Interestingly, the word has retained a similar meaning in both French and English, showcasing the shared linguistic roots of these languages. The concept of being capable is deeply ingrained in French culture, often reflecting a societal value placed on competence and ability in various fields.

FAQ

Q.What does capable mean in French?

'Capable' in French translates to 'able' in English, indicating someone's ability to perform a task or action.

Q.How do you use capable in a sentence?

You can use 'capable' in sentences like, 'Il est capable de résoudre des problèmes,' meaning 'He is able to solve problems.' It's typically followed by 'de' when introducing the action someone is able to do.

Q.Are there any common mistakes using capable?

A common mistake is to directly translate phrases without considering the context. Remember that 'capable' is often used with 'de,' so saying 'capable à' instead of 'capable de' is incorrect.

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