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For the most up-to-date content, please consult Writing Tips Plus, which combines content from Writing Tips and The Canadian Style. And don’t forget to update your bookmarks!

Search Canada.ca
To begin your search, go to the alphabetical index below and click on the first letter of the word you are searching for.

have the ability to, have the capability of, have the capability to

To write plainly and concisely, opt for can instead of the roundabout phrases have the ability to or have the capability to (or of). Other possibilities include be able to and be capable of.

  • Wordy:
    The RCMP has the ability to increase protection for visiting dignitaries.
    With computers, we have the capability of processing (to process) immense quantities of data.
  • Concise:
    The RCMP can increase protection for visiting dignitaries.
    With computers, we are able to process immense quantities of data.
    With computers, we are capable of processing immense quantities of data.