a certain capacity for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a certain capacity for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's ability or potential in a specific area or context. Example: "She has a certain capacity for leadership that inspires her team to perform better."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

The tubule has only a certain capacity for reabsorption.

Encyclopedia Britannica

I have known Olivia in a certain capacity for almost three years.

The New Yorker

Perhaps that also gives me a certain capacity for wonder at the world, like a child before a Christmas tree.

The New York Times - Arts

Recent years have established that a liking for novelty, neophilia, is a reliable predictor of wellbeing, provided you've got a certain capacity for perseverance, too.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

What is required in philosophy is a certain capacity for thinking about everyday concepts in abstraction from their everyday context, an ability distinct from the mathematical skill essential for being a good physicist.

The Guardian - Opinion

Officials say Triton should be able to assist in rescue missions by coordinating border surveillance operations involving "early detection actions for migrants with aerial surveillance and a certain capacity for naval means".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

In that case, there is a capacity or possibility for motion that precedes the purported first moment, but time according to Avicenna is again just a certain capacity or possibility for motion.

SEP

The second impression, though, is of stubbornness, and a certain capacity, carefully walled-off, for impatience.

The New Yorker

Another option being considered by the board is for a Highland-wide presumption against further licences for off-sales over a certain capacity.

BBC

Therefore, as in the case shown by earlier studies [13], SVM has certain capacity for identifying novel active compounds from sparse as well as regular-sized active datasets.

Chemistry Central Journal

There are further subtleties here, but they are inessential to the main point, which is simply that most theorists think that it is appropriate for X to blame Y only if Y has certain capacities for control, practical reasoning, moral understanding, etc., and exercised them on the occasion in question.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a certain capacity for", clearly define the area or skill to which the capacity relates to avoid ambiguity. For instance, instead of saying 'He has a certain capacity,' specify 'He has a certain capacity for problem-solving'.

Common error

Avoid using "a certain capacity for" in overly broad contexts that lack specific meaning. For example, stating someone has "a certain capacity for life" is vague and doesn't provide useful information. Be as specific as possible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a certain capacity for" functions as a noun phrase modifying another noun, typically describing the extent or degree of an ability or potential. Ludwig highlights its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a certain capacity for" is a versatile phrase used to denote a specific level of ability or potential. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and suitability across various contexts, particularly in scientific, news, and encyclopedic domains. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the area of competence and avoiding overgeneralizations. Alternatives like "some aptitude for" or "a potential for" can provide nuanced variations. With its common frequency and neutral formality, mastering "a certain capacity for" is valuable for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a knack for

Suggests a natural and easy ability.

some aptitude for

Focuses on a natural inclination or talent.

a measure of talent for

Indicates the presence of some inherent skill.

a degree of competence in

Highlights a specific level of skill or proficiency.

a level of proficiency in

Highlights a specific level of skill or proficiency.

a potential for

Emphasizes the possibility of future development.

some facility with

Emphasizes ease and smoothness in performance.

some capability regarding

Highlights that someone/something can do something related with.

a predisposition toward

Highlights an increased likelihood or tendency.

an inclination towards

Suggests a leaning or preference.

FAQs

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

Use "a certain capacity for" to describe someone's potential or ability in a specific area. For example: "She has "a certain capacity for" leadership."

What are some alternatives to "a certain capacity for"?

Alternatives include phrases like "some aptitude for", "a degree of competence in", or "a potential for", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to use "a certain capacity for" or "certain capacities for"?

The choice depends on context. Use "a certain capacity for" to refer to a single, general ability. Use "certain capacities for" when referring to multiple, specific abilities. For example: "He has certain capacities for both music and mathematics".

What's the difference between "a certain capacity for" and "a strong capacity for"?

"A certain capacity for" indicates a noticeable ability, while "a strong capacity for" suggests a significant or well-developed ability. The latter emphasizes the degree of ability more than the former.