1. Cacian

    Cacian Banned

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    which one?

    Discussion in 'Word Mechanics' started by Cacian, Jan 22, 2012.

    I am not sure about the difference between the two.

    He was able to trace his memory back without a doubt.

    or

    He was capable of tracing back his memory undoubtefully.
     
  2. mammamaia

    mammamaia nit-picker-in-chief Contributor

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    neither makes much, if any sense...

    first of all, how would anyone 'trace his memory back'?... what is that supposed to mean?... one either has a memory of something, or one doesn't...

    and what does 'without a doubt' refer to?... that he had no doubt that his memory was accurate?... or that the narrator doesn't doubt that the character did so?...

    again, 'tracing back his memory' makes no sense... and 'undoubtefully' is not a word...
     
  3. Cacian

    Cacian Banned

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    doubtfully and undoubtfully? I thought the latter existed too.

    I am trying to understand the difference in
    able and capable of

    He is able to discuss his motives.
    and
    He was capable of discussing his motives.

    with a doubt/doubtfully
    and
    without a doubt/ undoubtfully?
     
  4. AmsterdamAssassin

    AmsterdamAssassin Active Member

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    Did you try the dictionary? Able is having the necessary power to accomplish something while capable means having the potential to accomplish something.
     
  5. Ziggy Stardust

    Ziggy Stardust Active Member

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    It's undoubtedly.

    But why wouldn't you just say "He remembered"?
     
  6. Cacian

    Cacian Banned

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    Ihave..
    I was able to win ( means the person won)
    as opposed
    I was capable of winning ( means the person did not win but could have)
    I undertstand now.

    Thank you for the correction.:)
    He remembered
    means differently from
    He was able to remember.
     

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