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Common mistake missing 'to' after 'able'

Common Grammar Mistakes: Missing "to" After "Able"

One common grammar mistake that many people make is forgetting to use the preposition "to" after the adjective "able" when followed by a verb. This error often occurs when describing the ability or possibility of doing something.

Example:

  • Incorrect: He is able run a marathon without stopping.
  • Correct: He is able to run a marathon without stopping.

In the incorrect example, the word "to" is missing after "able." Adding the preposition "to" before the verb "run" corrects the sentence and makes it grammatically accurate.

This mistake is easy to make because "able" itself implies the ability to do something. However, when it is followed by a verb, it is important to include "to" to indicate the action that can be performed.

Using the right grammar not only enhances the clarity of your writing but also makes it more professional and accurate. To avoid this and many other common grammar mistakes, it is important to proofread your work carefully or utilize automated tools like the Linguix Grammar Checker.

missing 'to' after 'able' mistake examples

  • Incorrect:
    I'm able go forward.

    Correct:
    I'm able to go forward.

  • Incorrect:
    Tom is not able make this happening.

    Correct:
    Tom is not able to make this happening.

  • Correct:
    They are unable even to exercise faith in Christ by their own will.
  • Correct:
    A little man who was stumping along eastward at a good walk, and the other a girl of maybe eight or ten who was running as hard as she was able down a cross street.
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