Understanding the concept of “be able to” is crucial for mastering English, especially in expressing capability and potential. This phrase is essential for communicating one’s ability to perform tasks or achieve goals.

Definition and Usage

The phrase “be able to” is used to indicate that someone has the capability or skill to do something. It is commonly used in various tenses to express different times. For example, “I am able to swim” indicates current ability, while “I was able to complete the project” refers to past capability.

Forming Sentences with “Be Able To”

To use “be able to” correctly, it is important to combine it with the appropriate tense of the verb “to be.” For present ability, use “am,” “is,” or “are” with “able to,” as in “She is able to solve complex problems.” For past ability, use “was” or “were,” such as “They were able to travel abroad last year.” For future ability, use “will be able to,” like “He will be able to join us next week.”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A common mistake is confusing “be able to” with “can.” While both express ability, “can” is more informal and used in the present tense, whereas “be able to” is more versatile and can be used in various tenses. For instance, “I can cook” is present tense, but “I am able to cook” is more formal and can be used in different contexts.

In summary, understanding and correctly using “be able to” helps in accurately expressing one’s abilities across different times. Mastery of this phrase enhances both written and spoken communication in English, making it a vital aspect of language learning.