Able vs. Enable: What's the Difference?
Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sumera Saeed || Published on November 19, 2023
"Able" means having the skill, power, or means to do something. "Enable" means to provide with the means or opportunity to do something.
Key Differences
"Able" refers to the capacity or competency inherent in a person or an entity. It implies that the skill or strength required to perform a task is already present. "Enable," on the other hand, is a verb that involves an external action that allows a person or system to perform a task.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 19, 2023
Having the ability to complete a task means that one possesses the necessary skills, resources, or strength. To enable someone means you are granting them the power or means they need to achieve something, which they might not be able to do without assistance.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 19, 2023
In the context of technology, being able to operate a device means one has the knowledge and skill to do so. To enable a feature on a device means to turn it on or to make it operational, often through a selection or command.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 19, 2023
"Able" can be used to describe potential or existing capacity. For instance, a company might be able to increase production if it has the resources. To enable this increase, however, the company might need an investment or technological upgrade, which is where "enable" comes into play.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 19, 2023
In summary, "able" is the possession of the means or skill to do something, often innately or through acquired learning. "Enable" is the act of providing the means or opportunity for someone or something to act or perform a function.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 19, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Function
Describes capacity or competence.
Describes the action of giving capacity or permission.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 19, 2023
Dependency
Self-sufficient capability.
Often requires external assistance or permission.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 19, 2023
Usage
Refers to inherent qualities.
Refers to making something possible or functional.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 19, 2023
Examples
"She is able to solve the problem."
"This tool enables you to solve the problem."
Janet White
Nov 19, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Able and Enable Definitions
Able
Possessing the skill.
She was able to finish the marathon despite the heat.
Huma Saeed
Nov 01, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Able
Legally permitted.
After turning 18, she was able to vote in the election.
Sara Rehman
Nov 01, 2023
Enable
To allow functionality.
Clicking the button enables the device's Bluetooth feature.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 01, 2023
Able
Having sufficient power or resources to accomplish something
A singer able to reach high notes.
A detergent able to remove stains.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 10, 2023
Enable
To supply with the means, knowledge, or opportunity (to do something); make able
A hole in the fence that enabled us to watch.
Techniques that enable surgeons to repair the heart.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 10, 2023
Able
Usage Problem Susceptible to action or treatment
The brakes were able to be fixed.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 10, 2023
Enable
To make feasible or possible
Funds that will enable construction of new schools.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 10, 2023
Able
Especially capable or proficient
The new programmers proved to be very able.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 10, 2023
FAQs
What does 'able' mean?
It means having the capacity, skill, or means to do something.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 19, 2023
Is 'enable' always about technology?
No, 'enable' can be applied to any context where something is made possible.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 19, 2023
Are 'able' and 'capable' the same?
They are similar, but 'capable' may imply potential that is not yet realized.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 19, 2023
Can 'able' be used as a verb?
No, 'able' is an adjective and is not used as a verb.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 19, 2023
Can 'enable' be used as an adjective?
No, 'enable' is a verb and does not have an adjective form.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 19, 2023
Does 'able' imply success?
'Able' implies the capability to succeed but does not guarantee it.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 19, 2023
Can you 'enable' someone to be 'able'?
Yes, by enabling someone, you give them the means to be able to do something.
Janet White
Nov 19, 2023
Is 'enable' the same as 'empower'?
Similar, but 'empower' often implies giving power in a more significant, transformative way.
Harlon Moss
Nov 19, 2023
Can an object be 'able'?
Yes, in context, like a machine being able to perform a function.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 19, 2023
Can 'able' and 'enable' be used interchangeably?
No, they cannot because 'able' is an adjective and 'enable' is a verb with different meanings.
Harlon Moss
Nov 19, 2023
Is 'enable' a positive term?
'Enable' is generally positive but can be negative if it allows harmful actions.
Janet White
Nov 19, 2023
Does 'able' relate to ability?
Yes, 'able' directly relates to one's ability.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 19, 2023
What does 'enable' mean?
It refers to the action of making something possible or functional.
Huma Saeed
Nov 19, 2023
Are there any synonyms for 'enable'?
Yes, facilitate, authorize, and permit are some synonyms.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 19, 2023
Does 'enable' always require an enabler?
Typically, yes, an enabler is someone or something that facilitates an action.
Sara Rehman
Nov 19, 2023
How do you use 'able' in a sentence?
"She is able to solve complex problems easily."
Sumera Saeed
Nov 19, 2023
How do you use 'enable' in a sentence?
"Installing this software will enable advanced editing features."
Sara Rehman
Nov 19, 2023
What is the noun form of 'enable'?
The noun form is 'enabler' when referring to a person, or 'enabling' when referring to the action.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 19, 2023
Are there any synonyms for 'able'?
Yes, competent, capable, and qualified are some synonyms.
Janet White
Nov 19, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Huma SaeedHuma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.
