a minor capacity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a minor capacity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small or limited role, function, or ability in a particular context. Example: "She was involved in the project in a minor capacity, assisting with research and data collection."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Sultan performed at the Nimas back in 2011 in a minor capacity.

The Guardian - Music

What would be scary for me is to exist at the Trump Organization in a minor capacity.

The New York Times

He entered the service of the court in a minor capacity, serving successively two imperial princes; imperial activities are celebrated in some of his most famous poems.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Wang served in a minor capacity in the governments of both the Yuan and the Ming but was linked (erroneously, it was later revealed) with a prime minister who conspired against the Ming emperor Taizu; as a result, he was imprisoned for the last five years of his life.

Encyclopedia Britannica

HOUR currencies do not stand out with regard to any criteria, but may have a minor capacity to promote local purchasing.

Journal of Cleaner Production

The 22nd also participated, in a minor capacity, in the Battle of Chancellorsville.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Jar Jar Binks, who served as a gurning comic relief in the earlier film, is said to return in a more minor capacity.

The Guardian - Film

In mammals, cardiac damage is not followed by the complete replacement of lost cellular components but is rather defined by a relatively minor capacity for regeneration and far more robust reparative response.

Fibrogenesis and Tissue Repair

The occurrence of trace amounts of TG and SE in deletion mutants described above may serve as a hint that further enzymes capable of synthesizing non-polar lipids although with minor capacity exist in P. pastoris.

Biochimica et Biophysica Acta - General Subjects

Due to over-supply, has been no new paper production capacity has been installed in the last few years, although minor capacity increases were made through modifications or programs to reduce bottlenecks.

FAO

However, it was shown that carbohydrate intake alone has only a minor phase resetting capacity, while complex foods show much stronger effects (Hirao et al., 2009), indicating that other factors must be involved.

eLife

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about historical events or biographies, use "a minor capacity" to accurately portray someone's role in an organization or event when they were not a primary figure.

Common error

Avoid using "a minor capacity" when describing someone's pivotal role in an event or organization. Using it in such scenarios would misrepresent their actual influence or contribution.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a minor capacity" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It describes the extent or degree of involvement, ability, or function. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically sound and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

24%

Science

24%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Wiki

12%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a minor capacity" is used to describe a limited or secondary role, function, or ability. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable across a range of contexts. As the analysis reveals, it is most commonly found in news, encyclopedias, scientific papers, and wiki entries. When using this phrase, make sure it accurately reflects the extent of involvement or capability you are describing, avoiding overstatement. Alternatives such as ""a limited role"" or ""a small function"" can be used for subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a limited role

Focuses on the restriction of involvement rather than the ability itself.

a small function

Emphasizes the size or scope of the task or duty.

a secondary function

Highlights that the function is not the primary one.

a peripheral role

Suggests the role is on the edge or outside the main activity.

a subordinate capacity

Indicates a lower rank or position in terms of capability.

a reduced capacity

Highlights that the ability is at a lower level than normal or potential.

a supplementary role

Suggests the role provides additional support rather than being essential.

a marginal function

Indicates that the function is of minimal importance or effect.

a slight ability

Emphasizes the minimal level of skill or competence.

a minimal contribution

Focuses on the small impact or input made.

FAQs

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

You can use "a minor capacity" to describe a limited role or function. For instance, "She participated in the project in "a minor capacity", primarily assisting with data entry".

What are some alternatives to "a minor capacity"?

Alternatives include "a limited role", "a small function", or "a secondary function", depending on the specific context.

Is "a minor capacity" formal or informal?

"A minor capacity" is generally considered neutral to professional in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts where appropriate, such as news articles, encyclopedias, and professional reports.

What's the difference between "a minor capacity" and "a major capacity"?

"A minor capacity" indicates a limited or secondary role, while "a major capacity" suggests a primary or significant role. The choice depends on the level of involvement or ability you want to convey.