soy capaz
/soi kapaθ/from spelling rules
In Spanish, soy capaz is the way to say "I am able".
What does it mean word for word?
The word capaz literally means "capable".
Which one should you use?
While soy capaz emphasizes a person's inherent ability or competence, the form puedo (from the verb *poder*) is more commonly used to express the immediate possibility or permission to do something.
How does it change in a sentence?
This phrase uses the verb ser (soy) rather than estar because being capable is viewed as a characteristic or quality of the person. When you want to say "I am able to" followed by an infinitive verb, you must follow soy capaz with the preposition de.
Did you know?
- In Spanish, soy capaz can be used as a threat. Saying soy capaz de hacerlo often suggests the speaker is daring or bold enough to do something negative.
- The Spanish word capaz shares a common ancestor with the English word 'capacious', which describes something having a lot of space.
- Using soy capaz can sound defiant. It is often used to challenge someone who has doubted the speaker's abilities, essentially meaning 'i actually can do it'.
Examples in context
- Soy capaz de conducir un coche.I am able to drive a car.This sentence shows how to use soy capaz to express the ability to drive.Tatoeba #1209763 by Shishir, translation #258399 by CK
- Soy capaz de cruzar el río a nado.I am able to swim across the river.This sentence shows how to use soy capaz to express the ability to swim.Tatoeba #1334242 by Shishir, translation #321888 by CK
- Soy capaz de hablar dos idiomas.I am able to speak two languages.
- Soy capaz de resolver problemas matemáticos complejos.I am able to solve complex mathematical problems.
- Soy capaz de adaptarme a nuevas situaciones rápidamente.I am able to adapt to new situations quickly.
- Puedo jugar varios instrumentos musicales.I can play several musical instruments.
- Puedo cocinar platos deliciosos.I can cook delicious dishes.
- Puedo resolver acertijos complicados.I can solve complicated riddles.
- Puedo lograr aprender a bailar salsa.I can manage to learn how to dance salsa.
- Puedo lograr terminar el proyecto a tiempo.I can manage to finish the project on time.
- Soy capaz de terminar el proyecto hoy.I am able to finish the project today.
Example conversation
Maria and Alejandro are discussing a difficult work project.
- MaríaEste proyecto es muy difícil, Alejandro.This project is very difficult, Alejandro.
- AlejandroSí, pero creo que podemos lograrlo.Yes, but I think we can achieve it.
- MaríaYo soy capaz de organizar todo el equipo.I am able to organize the whole team.
- AlejandroEso sería de gran ayuda, María.That would be a great help, Maria.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries capaz, soy, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
