Able vs. Enable: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Harlon Moss || 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.
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.
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.
"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.
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.
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Comparison Chart
Part of Speech
Adjective (describes a noun)
Verb (describes an action)
Function
Describes capacity or competence.
Describes the action of giving capacity or permission.
Dependency
Self-sufficient capability.
Often requires external assistance or permission.
Usage
Refers to inherent qualities.
Refers to making something possible or functional.
Examples
"She is able to solve the problem."
"This tool enables you to solve the problem."
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Able and Enable Definitions
Able
Possessing the skill.
She was able to finish the marathon despite the heat.
Enable
To authorize.
The new policy enables employees to work remotely.
Able
Having the power.
He is able to lift weights heavier than his own body.
Enable
To make possible.
The scholarship will enable her to attend college.
Able
Having the means.
They were able to travel the world with their savings.
Enable
To give ability.
This program enables users to create their own music.
Able
Legally permitted.
After turning 18, she was able to vote in the election.
Enable
To allow functionality.
Clicking the button enables the device's Bluetooth feature.
Able
Having the capacity.
The company is able to handle the increased demand.
Enable
To facilitate.
The bridge enables easier access between the two cities.
Able
Having sufficient power or resources to accomplish something
A singer able to reach high notes.
A detergent able to remove stains.
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.
Able
Usage Problem Susceptible to action or treatment
The brakes were able to be fixed.
Enable
To make feasible or possible
Funds that will enable construction of new schools.
Able
Especially capable or proficient
The new programmers proved to be very able.
FAQs
What does 'able' mean?
It means having the capacity, skill, or means to do something.
Is 'enable' always about technology?
No, 'enable' can be applied to any context where something is made possible.
Are 'able' and 'capable' the same?
They are similar, but 'capable' may imply potential that is not yet realized.
Can 'able' be used as a verb?
No, 'able' is an adjective and is not used as a verb.
Can 'enable' be used as an adjective?
No, 'enable' is a verb and does not have an adjective form.
Does 'able' imply success?
'Able' implies the capability to succeed but does not guarantee it.
Can you 'enable' someone to be 'able'?
Yes, by enabling someone, you give them the means to be able to do something.
Is 'enable' the same as 'empower'?
Similar, but 'empower' often implies giving power in a more significant, transformative way.
Can an object be 'able'?
Yes, in context, like a machine being able to perform a function.
Can 'able' and 'enable' be used interchangeably?
No, they cannot because 'able' is an adjective and 'enable' is a verb with different meanings.
Is 'enable' a positive term?
'Enable' is generally positive but can be negative if it allows harmful actions.
Does 'able' relate to ability?
Yes, 'able' directly relates to one's ability.
What does 'enable' mean?
It refers to the action of making something possible or functional.
Are there any synonyms for 'enable'?
Yes, facilitate, authorize, and permit are some synonyms.
Does 'enable' always require an enabler?
Typically, yes, an enabler is someone or something that facilitates an action.
How do you use 'able' in a sentence?
"She is able to solve complex problems easily."
How do you use 'enable' in a sentence?
"Installing this software will enable advanced editing features."
What is the noun form of 'able'?
The noun form is 'ability.'
What is the noun form of 'enable'?
The noun form is 'enabler' when referring to a person, or 'enabling' when referring to the action.
Are there any synonyms for 'able'?
Yes, competent, capable, and qualified are some synonyms.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
