Dictionary-enhanced word family
Word Forms of “Capable”
Having the ability or skill to do something. Being good at something and able to handle it.
Word Family of Capable
What is the noun of capable? — capability
What is the adjective of capable? — capable
What is the adverb of capable? — capably
How to Use Each Word Form in a Sentence
- She is a very capable manager who handles problems effectively. B2
- Modern smartphones are capable of performing complex tasks. B2
- Are you capable of finishing this project on time? B2
Word Form Patterns for Capable
-ity
Adds **-ity** to form an abstract noun about a quality or state. Example: capable → capability.
-ly
Adds **-ly** to make an adverb describing how an action happens. Example: capable → capably.
Origin and Word Formation of Capable
From Latin 'capabilis' (able to hold or contain). 'Cap-' (to hold) + '-able' (able to). Entered English in 16th century, originally meaning 'having capacity'.
Common Word Form Mistakes with Capable
Wrong: She is capable to do the job.
Correct: She is capable of doing the job.
Use 'capable of + gerund' not 'capable to + infinitive'.
Wrong: It is more capable than the other.
Correct: It is more capable than the other one.
When comparing, follow "than" with a complete noun phrase, not just "the other".
Wrong: The technology is capable of solve problems.
Correct: The technology is capable of solving problems.
After 'of' use the gerund (-ing form), not the base verb.
Frequently Asked Questions About Word Forms of Capable
What are the word forms of “capable”?
The confirmed forms are shown in the word family cards above. Missing parts of speech are hidden instead of filled with placeholder text.
What part of speech is “capable”?
“capable” is primarily a adj. Some forms above show how the same root works as other parts of speech.
Where does “capable” come from?
From Latin 'capabilis' (able to hold or contain). 'Cap-' (to hold) + '-able' (able to). Entered English in 16th century, originally meaning 'having capacity'.