Re: translation

Question

Hola, y gracias por responder a mi pregunta.

My question relates to the sentence in this quiz:

"and be able to work on the negative aspects."

Kwizbot: y poder trabajar en los aspectos negativos.

You: y ser capaz de trabajar en los aspectos negativos.

Note: My sentence does translate to : “and be able to work on the negative” aspects.

I wanted to check with you if what I wrote: "ser capaz de" is correct and if not, why not ?

And if my use of "ser capaz de" is correct/acceptable? - I would imagine that

there would be some difference in meaning?..- and if so, what that would be.

Thank you for your help.

Nicole

Answer

Hola Nicole,your answer is also correct. I just added it to the exercise.Poder and Ser capaz de are synomyms. Poder is a lot more common to use though. For example in sentences of this type:No puedo ir al cine hoy. (I can't go to the cinema today.)¿Puedes pasarme la sal? (Can you pass me the salt?)In sentences using the general "can" we wouldn't use "ser capaz de" because this one is more in the sense of "being able to do something" as in being "capable". So, for example when challenging someone to do something you'd say something like:¿Eres capaz de subir a ese arbol? ( Are you able to climb that tree?)I hope this clarified it.Saludos

Answer

Oh Inma, you are my hero.  Muchas gracias.  I am so happy you're there!  Thank you for your work and your always helpful answers.  You made my day.Nicole