Common Grammar Mistake: "Are able to" instead of "Can"

One common mistake that people often make in English is using the phrase "are able to" instead of the simpler word "can." While "are able to" is not technically incorrect, it is generally considered more wordy and less concise than using "can."

Here are a few examples to illustrate the difference:

• Incorrect: I am able to swim.
• Correct: I can swim.

• Incorrect: She is able to speak French fluently.
• Correct: She can speak French fluently.

As you can see, the use of "are able to" adds unnecessary words to the sentence without changing the meaning. In most cases, it is more effective to simply use "can" to express ability or capability.

Using "can" in Different Tenses

When using "can" in different tenses, remember to use appropriate verb forms:

• Present: I can swim.
• Past: He could swim when he was younger.
• Future: They will be able to swim after they take lessons.

By using "can" instead of "are able to," you can improve your English writing and make your sentences more concise and clear. Remember, it is always important to choose the simplest and most effective word or phrase to convey your message.

Linguix grammar checker can help you identify and correct common grammar mistakes like using "are able to" instead of "can." With its advanced algorithms, Linguix provides real-time suggestions to improve your writing and enhance your overall grammar skills.