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| Date: | 1300-1400 |
| Language: | Old French |
| Origin: | Latin habilis 'skillful', from habere 'to have' |
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a‧ble S1 W1
1
be able to do something
a) to have the skill, strength, knowledge etc needed to do something : I've always wanted to be able to speak Japanese. ➔ see usage note can1
I've always wanted to be able to speak Japanese.b) to be in a situation in which it is possible for you to do something : I'd like to do more gardening, but I never seem able to find the time. I haven't been able to read that report yet.
I'd like to do more gardening, but I never seem able to find the time.I haven't been able to read that report yet.2 clever or good at doing something : one of my more able students
one of my more able students