enable
gb/ɪnˈeɪbəl/ us/ɪnˈeɪbəl/
A2
English
~ 1100
Senses
0 senses
Verb
B1
action
1
Make something possible
To make it possible for a person or thing to do something.
Usage pattern:
to enable [someone/something] to [do something]
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes confuse 'enable' with 'allow'. 'Enable' often involves providing means or ability, while 'allow' is about giving permission.
Synonyms
allow (More general and common; may sound less formal than 'enable'.)
|
facilitate (Often used in formal contexts; emphasizes making a process easier.)
Antonyms
prevent (Means to stop something from happening, the opposite of making it possible.)
|
disable (Means to make something unable to function or operate.)
Collocations
enable access
|enable users
|enable functionality
|enable communication
|enable development
Themes
technology
|business
|daily life
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- The new software will enable small businesses to manage their finances more easily.
- This training will enable you to work more efficiently.
- Good communication enables teams to solve problems quickly.
Learner examples
- The new app will enable you to send money quickly.
- Good tools enable workers to do their jobs well.
- This course will enable students to speak English better.
Verb
A2
action
2
Activate a device feature
To turn on a function or setting in a device or system.
Usage pattern:
to enable [feature/option/function]
Common mistake:
Learners may confuse 'enable' with 'install'. Enabling means turning on an existing feature, not adding new software.
Synonyms
activate (Direct synonym in technical contexts; slightly broader use possible.)
Antonyms
disable (Means to turn off or deactivate a feature.)
Collocations
enable notifications
|enable GPS
|enable Bluetooth
|enable dark mode
Themes
technology
Examples
- You need to enable location services for the app to work.
- I enabled two-factor authentication for extra security.
- Please enable the microphone in your settings.
Learner examples
- Enable Wi-Fi before you use the internet.
- You must enable the sound to hear the video.
- He enabled the camera on his phone.
Verb
B2
action
3
Give power or authority
To give someone the power or right to do something.
Usage pattern:
to enable [someone] to [do something]
Synonyms
empower ('Empower' often has a positive connotation of encouraging and supporting.)
Antonyms
restrict (Means to limit someone's power or ability.)
Collocations
enable legislation
|enable communities
|enable employees
Themes
law
|politics
|business
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- The new policy enables citizens to participate more in local decisions.
- This law enables the council to raise funds for public projects.
- Training programs enable employees to take on leadership roles.
Learner examples
- The rule enables workers to take more breaks.
- This law enables people to vote earlier.
- The plan enables teachers to help more students.
Grammar
Dictionary form
enable
IPA
GB/ɪnˈeɪbəl/
US/ɪnˈeɪbəl/
Syllables & stress
en - able (2 syllables)
Stress on 2nd syllable (able)
Word forms
Verb
- Base: enable
- 3rd Person Singular: enables
- Present Participle: enabling
- Past: enabled
Word family
Expressions
enable access
1/ɪnˈeɪbəl ˈæksˌɛs/
fixed phrase
technical
Allow entry or use
To make it possible for someone to enter or use something.
Examples
- The new password will enable access to the secure files.
- Only the admin can enable access for new users.
enable feature
1/ɪnˈeɪbəl fˈit͡ʃɚ/
fixed phrase
technical
Turn on specific function
To turn on a specific function in a device or system.
Examples
- You can enable this feature in the settings menu.
- The update will automatically enable the new feature.
enable someone to do something
1/ɪnˈeɪbəl sˈʌmwˌʌn tə dˈu sˈʌmθɪŋ/
fixed phrase
Make it possible for someone
To make it possible for a person to do something.
Examples
- Her advice enabled me to finish the project on time.
- The scholarship enabled him to study abroad.