as in qualified
having the required skills for an acceptable level of performance
looking for an able and reliable assistant
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of able
Another driver who was able to avoid the CR-V told investigators that neither its tail lights nor hazards were working at the time.
—
ABC News, 31 Mar. 2026
Peraza snagged a line drive and the Cubs’ Pete Crow-Armstrong was far enough from third that the Angels should have been able to double him off to end the inning.
—Jeff Fletcher, Oc Register, 31 Mar. 2026
Southern California and Oklahoma residents will be able to buy tickets for the 2028 Olympics April 2-6 in the presale reserve window.
—Los Angeles Times, 30 Mar. 2026
Evero, who calls a similar attack, might be able to adapt to the new recruits added to his unit.
—Mike Kaye
march 30, Charlotte Observer, 30 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for able
ABC News, 31 Mar. 2026
Peraza snagged a line drive and the Cubs’ Pete Crow-Armstrong was far enough from third that the Angels should have been able to double him off to end the inning.
—Jeff Fletcher, Oc Register, 31 Mar. 2026
Southern California and Oklahoma residents will be able to buy tickets for the 2028 Olympics April 2-6 in the presale reserve window.
—Los Angeles Times, 30 Mar. 2026
Evero, who calls a similar attack, might be able to adapt to the new recruits added to his unit.
—Mike Kaye
march 30, Charlotte Observer, 30 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for able
Recent Examples of Synonyms for able
Adjective
-
That said, these are average rates, and qualified borrowers who take the time to shop around for lower rates may find more affordable options.—
Matt Richardson,
CBS News,
2 Apr. 2026
-
The lowest APRs are only available to the most qualified applicants, depending on credit profile and the state where the property is located, and those who also select ten year loan terms; APRs will be higher for other applicants and those who select longer loan terms.—
Liz Knueven,
CNBC,
2 Apr. 2026
Adjective
-
Parents, guardians, aunts and uncles don't have time to read every book on the shelf while trying to pick something for the young reader in their life, so here are some simple ways to determine if a book is suitable for that child.—
Cody Godwin,
USA Today,
2 Apr. 2026
-
One way to make sure your hydrangeas look their loveliest is to plant them alongside suitable companion plants.—
Leanne Potts,
Better Homes & Gardens,
2 Apr. 2026
Adjective
-
The Bills have a host of capable receiving options like Shakir, tight end Dalton Kincaid and now wide receiver DJ Moore, who was acquired for a second round pick, but the team still has a need at the position.—
Andrew McCarty,
MSNBC Newsweek,
31 Mar. 2026
-
The law also explicitly states that allowing a reasonably capable child to walk to school or travel to a nearby park unsupervised does not, by itself, constitute neglect.—
Stephen Johnson,
Big Think,
31 Mar. 2026
Adjective
-
Prosecutors noted that once a defendant is found not competent and not restorable, there is no legal path to continue a criminal case.—
Stepheny Price , Peter D'Abrosca,
FOXNews.com,
1 Apr. 2026
-
The Trax is a pragmatic, usable, and competent subcompact utility with a realistic price tag and a modern feel for everyday driving.—
New Atlas,
New Atlas,
29 Mar. 2026
Adjective
-
Gluting is ranked as the second best left-hander in Illinois in the 2027 class by Prep Baseball Report behind Benet’s Quinn Rooney, who’s a Notre Dame recruit.—
Paul Johnson,
Chicago Tribune,
4 Apr. 2026
-
But UConn, usually at its best after making halftime adjustments, immediately fell behind again in the third.—
Emily Adams,
Hartford Courant,
4 Apr. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Able.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/able. Accessed 5 Apr. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
