a lack of capacities

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a lack of capacities" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a deficiency in abilities, skills, or resources in a particular context. Example: "The project's failure was primarily due to a lack of capacities among the team members to meet the demands of the task."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Secondly, we need to stop assuming that inequality is just about a lack of political will and low growth, and that poverty is about a lack of capacities.

The Guardian

One reason is likely a lack of capacities to develop health system programs with more complex designs as compared to disease-specific interventions.

Globalization and Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

This demonstrates a lack of transparency rather than a lack of capacity.

The Guardian - Opinion

MT: Is there a lack of capacity in international agencies and the AU/French military intervention?

The Guardian

But the government said the audit report reflected a lack of capacity, and not corruption.

The Guardian

"The crisis in the prisons is not a lack of capacity.

The Guardian

The single biggest problem facing VA facilities is a lack of capacity, Gibson said.

The Washington Post

One consequence is a lack of capacity to refine crude into petrol.

The Guardian

An even bigger problem, however, may be a lack of capacity in all branches of government.

The Economist

There is such a desperate need in this area, yet there is a lack of capacity to meet it.

Columbia University

Ingot- and wafer-makers hope a surge in the silicon supply will expose a lack of capacity in their fields.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a lack of capacities", ensure the context clearly specifies what type of capacities are lacking. For example, "a lack of technical capacities" is more precise than "a lack of capacities".

Common error

Avoid using "a lack of capacities" when a more specific term like "skills", "resources", or "expertise" would be more accurate and informative.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a lack of capacities" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes a deficiency in abilities, skills, or resources. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a lack of capacities" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to indicate a deficiency in skills, abilities, or resources. While Ludwig confirms its validity, it is a relatively rare expression. It appears in news and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly specifies the capacities in question for better clarity. Alternatives such as "an absence of capabilities" or "a deficiency in skills" might offer greater precision depending on the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an absence of capabilities

Replaces "lack" with "absence" and "capacities" with "capabilities", indicating a complete non-existence rather than a deficiency.

a deficiency in skills

Substitutes "capacities" with "skills", narrowing the focus to learned abilities rather than inherent potential.

an inadequacy of resources

Shifts the focus from inherent abilities to available resources, suggesting a shortage of means rather than skills.

a shortage of expertise

Specifically targets a deficit in specialized knowledge or skill, implying a need for training or specialists.

limited proficiency

Indicates a restricted level of skill or competence, suggesting room for improvement.

insufficient competence

Highlights a lack of the necessary ability or skill to perform a task effectively.

a dearth of talent

Emphasizes a scarcity of natural aptitude or skill within a group or area.

an absence of aptitude

Highlights a natural inclination/potential to succeed in some area.

restricted skill set

Highlights the narrow band of one's skills.

a deficit in competency

A formal term that signifies skills for certain roles are not present.

FAQs

How can I use "a lack of capacities" in a sentence?

You can use "a lack of capacities" to describe a deficiency in abilities, skills, or resources. For example: "The project failed due to "a lack of capacities" among the team members."

What are some alternatives to "a lack of capacities"?

Some alternatives include "an absence of capabilities", "a deficiency in skills", or "an inadequacy of resources", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "lack of capacity" or "lack of capacities"?

Both "lack of capacity" and "lack of capacities" are grammatically correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "Lack of capacity" refers to a general deficiency, while "lack of capacities" refers to a deficiency in specific abilities or resources.

What is the difference between "a lack of capacities" and "a lack of skills"?

"A lack of capacities" is broader and can refer to a deficiency in abilities, resources, or other factors. "A lack of skills" specifically refers to a deficiency in learned abilities or expertise.