a capacity of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a capacity of" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It typically refers to the ability or potential to do something. Here is an example sentence: John has a capacity of 50 pounds, so he can lift heavy boxes easily.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

The college has a capacity of capacity of 20,000.

The Guardian - Travel

The arena has a capacity of 20,600.

The New York Times - Sports

Cardiff City stadium has a capacity of 33,000.

The Guardian - Sport

The existing school has a capacity of 750 students.

The New York Times

Rutgers Stadium has a capacity of 41,500.

The New York Times - Sports

They would have had a capacity of almost Gallolike proportions.

The New York Times - Food

They have a capacity of 30 rockets per minute".

Independent

Little Court 6 has a capacity of 971.

The New York Times - Sports

A system with a capacity of three kilowatts would have 24 panels covering 240 square feet.

The New York Times

The cars, with a capacity of 125 people each, ferry passengers between Manhattan and Roosevelt Island.

The New York Times

Only 12 chairs were filled in a restaurant with a capacity of 500 guests.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical spaces or containers, use "a capacity of" followed by a specific unit of measurement (e.g., "a capacity of 50 liters"). This provides clear and quantifiable information.

Common error

Avoid using "a capacity of" when you actually mean "a capability of". "Capacity" refers to the amount something can hold, while "capability" refers to the ability to do something. For example, say "the system has "the capability of" processing 1000 transactions per second", not "the system has a capacity of processing..."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a capacity of" functions primarily as a noun phrase modifier. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its frequent use in specifying the maximum amount or volume that something can hold. It acts to quantify the holding ability of a subject.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

33%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a capacity of" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, as validated by Ludwig AI, employed to define the maximum amount or volume something can hold. Predominantly featured in News & Media and Scientific contexts, its register remains largely neutral, fitting diverse communication scenarios. While versatile, it's essential to distinguish it from "the capability of", ensuring accurate usage based on the intended meaning—volume versus inherent ability. By understanding its correct application, writers can articulate precise measurements and avoid common pitfalls.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the capability of

Focuses more on the ability or skill of something.

the capability to contain

Emphasizes the inherent ability to hold something within certain limits.

the ability to hold

Focuses on the physical aspect of holding something, often in a container or space.

the holding volume of

Specifies the volume that can be accommodated within a space or container.

the storage space for

Highlights the space designated for storage, implying a holding capacity.

the potential for

Indicates an unrealized ability or possibility for holding or containing something.

the space available for

Emphasizes the availability of space for accommodating something.

the room for

Refers to the available space for accommodating something.

the power to

Focuses on the inherent power or ability to perform a task or action.

the aptitude for

Highlights a natural talent or skill in performing a specific task.

FAQs

How is "a capacity of" used in a sentence?

The phrase "a capacity of" is used to describe the maximum amount that something can contain or produce. For instance, "The stadium has "a capacity of" 80,000 people" or "The factory has "a capacity of" producing 1000 units per day".

What are some alternatives to "a capacity of"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "the ability to hold", "the capability to contain", or simply rephrase to use "can hold" or "can produce".

Is it correct to say "the capacity is of"?

No, the correct phrasing is ""a capacity of"". The preposition "of" is necessary to connect the noun "capacity" to the amount or quantity being described.

What's the difference between "capacity" and "capability"?

"Capacity" refers to the maximum amount something can contain or produce, while "capability" refers to the ability or power to do something. You should use ""a capacity of"" when referring to volume, size, or quantity and ""the capability of"" when referring to abilities or skills.