able

If you are this, you can do something.

• I am able to swim.
• Were you able to open the door?
• He will be able to help tomorrow.

How to use it: be able to + verb (She is able to read French.)

Similar words: capable

Opposites: unable

Common phrases: able to swim, able to help, able to come, able to lift

Free to do something because nothing stops you or prevents it.

• You are able to leave now.
• She was finally able to travel abroad.
• Will we be able to speak freely?

How to use it: be able to + verb (After the meeting, you will be able to leave.)

Similar words: free, permitted

Common phrases: able to leave, able to speak, able to travel

Good at doing a job because of skill or intelligence.

• She is an able teacher.
• The company needs an able manager.
• He proved an able leader during the crisis.

Similar words: capable, competent, skilled

Opposites: incompetent

Common phrases: able teacher, able leader, able assistant