been able to

Possessed the capability

Been able to is the present perfect form of "be able to," indicating capability that existed at some point before now.

It emphasizes completed or ongoing ability rather than a single past event: I've been able to reach him by phone, She hasn't been able to sleep well lately.

The phrase often implies effort or circumstance behind the ability.

Related

pull it off · finally · so far · may · accomplishment · attainment · breakthrough · not · competence · overcome · proficiency · chance · possibility · permission · gained · allowance · feasibility · open

Opposites
capability/possibility

been able tocouldn't

Past inability marker

success/failure in execution

been able tobungled

Performed ineptly, failed

Family

able, ability, been, unable, disabled, disable, abilities, enables, enabling

Familiarity
Top 10,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Abstract · Everyday, not technical · Rated G