a capacity for

USAGE SUMMARY

'a capacity for' is a correct and usable form of written English.
It is most commonly used to describe a person's potential for a certain type of skill or behavior, usually a positive trait. Example: "John has a great capacity for leadership."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A capacity for happiness is another.

The New Yorker

A capacity for advanced manufacturing boosts innovation.

MIT Technology Review

"There is a capacity for both to coincide.

The Guardian - Tech

A Capacity for Bluntness At times he can be blunt.

The New York Times

What remains is a capacity for love and duty.

The New York Times

He has a capacity for explosion that is incredible.

The New York Times - Magazine

He had a capacity for getting carried away.

The Guardian - Arts

Build a capacity for learning and continuous improvement.

Harvard Business Review

But occasionally, it shows a capacity for kindness.

The Washington Post

Harmonize your ambition with a capacity for patience.

Columbia University

The first is a capacity for moral ambiguity.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a capacity for" to describe someone's inherent ability or potential to develop a particular skill or trait. For instance, "She has a remarkable capacity for empathy."

Common error

Avoid using "a capacity for" when describing a currently demonstrated skill. "Ability" is more appropriate in such cases. For example, instead of "He has a capacity for playing the piano", use "He has the ability to play the piano".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a capacity for" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes the inherent potential or aptitude someone or something possesses. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's correct and usable form.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Wiki

16%

Huffington Post

14%

Less common in

Science

9%

SEP

5%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a capacity for" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that describes someone's inherent potential or ability. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It is appropriate for various contexts, particularly in news, media, and general discussions. When using this phrase, ensure it reflects potential rather than demonstrated skill, and consider alternatives like "an aptitude for" or "a potential for" to add nuance. Avoiding its misuse ensures clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an aptitude for

Focuses more on a natural inclination or talent.

a capability for

Highlights the inherent qualities that enable a specific action or process.

a potential for

Highlights the possibility of future development or achievement.

an ability to

Emphasizes a demonstrated skill or competence.

a talent for

Suggests a natural gift or special skill.

a propensity for

Indicates a tendency or inclination towards something, often a behavior.

a facility with

Highlights ease and skill in dealing with something.

an inclination toward

Suggests a natural leaning or preference.

a competence in

Focuses on the adequacy and effectiveness of performance.

a readiness for

Implies a state of being prepared and willing.

FAQs

How can I use "a capacity for" in a sentence?

Use "a capacity for" to indicate someone's potential or inherent ability to do something. For example, "She has "a capacity for" understanding complex ideas."

What's the difference between "a capacity for" and "an ability to"?

"A capacity for" refers to potential or inherent capability, while "an ability to" indicates a demonstrated skill. Use "a capacity for" when describing potential and "an ability to" when describing current skills.

What can I say instead of "a capacity for"?

You can use alternatives like "an aptitude for", "a potential for", or "an ability to", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a capacity of" instead of "a capacity for"?

No, "a capacity of" typically refers to the physical volume or size. Use ""a capacity for"" when referring to someone's potential or inherent ability.