have the ability to, have the capability of, have the capability to

To write plainly and concisely, opt for can instead of the roundabout phrases have the ability to or have the capability to (or of). Other possibilities include be able to and be capable of.

  • Wordy:
    The RCMP has the ability to increase protection for visiting dignitaries.
    With computers, we have the capability of processing (to process) immense quantities of data.
  • Concise:
    The RCMP can increase protection for visiting dignitaries.
    With computers, we are able to process immense quantities of data.
    With computers, we are capable of processing immense quantities of data.

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© His Majesty the King in Right of Canada, represented by the Minister of Public Services and Procurement
A tool created and made available online by the Translation Bureau, Public Services and Procurement Canada

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