able (adj.)
1. having the necessary power, resources, skill, time, opportunity, etc, to do something ⇒ able to swim
2. capable; competent; talented ⇒ an able teacher
3. (law) qualified, competent, or authorized to do some specific act
capable (adj.)
1. having ability, esp in many different fields; competent
2. able or having the skill (to do something) ⇒ she is capable of hard work
3. having the temperament or inclination (to do something) ⇒ he seemed capable of murder
You can see a lot of overlap, particularly with definitions #1 & #2 for
capable, and definition #2 for
able. Both words mean
competent; plus,
able means
capable, and
capable means
able. This means there will be several contexts where either word could be used:
Sammy is an able electrician; I would recommend him.
Tammie is a capable electrician; I would recommend her.
Evan has shown he is able to reach the green from the tee box.
Kevin has shown he is capable of reaching the green from the tee box.
However, the definitions also show instances where one word
couldn't be exchanged for the other:
I have to catch a flight; I won't be able to hold the meeting this afternoon.
⇒ This is able Definition #1; capable is not appropriate here.
Because I didn't apply in time, I won't be able to start college this fall.
⇒ This is able Definition #3; capable is not appropriate here.
Melvin is a lazy student; he isn't capable of finishing college.
⇒ This is capable Definition #3; able is less appropriate here.
Dorothy doesn't know what she is doing; she isn't capable of holding the meeting today.
⇒ This is capable Definition #1; but able might be appropriate here.
0 komentar:
Posting Komentar