1. able

(usually followed by to') having the necessary means or skill or know-how or authority to do something

Example Sentences:
'able to swim'
'she was able to program her computer'
'we were at last able to buy a car'
'able to get a grant for the project'

2. able, capable

have the skills and qualifications to do things well

Example Sentences:
'able teachers'
'a capable administrator'
'children as young as 14 can be extremely capable and dependable'

• capable

3. able

having inherent physical or mental ability or capacity

Example Sentences:
'able to learn'
'human beings are able to walk on two feet'
'Superman is able to leap tall buildings'

4. able, able-bodied

having a strong healthy body

Example Sentences:
'an able seaman'
'every able-bodied young man served in the army'

• able-bodied