capables

Capables is a term that may be used to refer to people or entities characterized by their abilities. It is not a standard dictionary entry, but some writers use it informally as a plural noun derived from the adjective capable to denote those who are particularly competent in a given context. The word can also appear in fictional or organizational contexts as a proper noun, such as naming a team, cohort, or faction that prides itself on its skills.

Etymology and form: Capables is the plural form of the noun capable when used as a substantive. The base adjective capable derives from late Latin capabĭlis, via French capable. The noun usage is rare; most often the sentiment would be conveyed with “capable people” or “the capable.”

Usage: In informal prose, “The capables on the engineering team delivered the prototype ahead of schedule.” In speculative or science-fiction writing, a faction or group might be titled “the Capables” to emphasize competence as a brand or identity. As a general English construction, it remains uncommon and can sound unconventional outside of specific stylistic or branding contexts.

Relation to other concepts: The term capabilites of interest in philosophical discussions is the capabilities approach, proposed by Amartya Sen and Martha Nussbaum, which focuses on what individuals are able to do and be. “Capables” could be used loosely to refer to those who exemplify capabilities in a nontechnical sense, but it is not a standard technical term in that theory.

See also: capabilities, capable, capability, capability approach.