a prodigious capacity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a prodigious capacity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that has an extraordinary ability or potential in a particular area. Example: "Her prodigious capacity for learning languages amazed everyone around her."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Mel Steely, a former colleague of his on the history faculty of West Georgia College, recalled that Mr. Gingrich taught himself to speed-read and had a prodigious capacity to absorb facts.

The New York Times

He has been away for only a few months, has been left with a childlike affect, trouble controlling his emotions, an undying hatred of the musician Kenny G. and a prodigious capacity for exercise.

The New York Times - Books

He had everything - a ferociously forensic brain, deep compassion, a prodigious capacity for work, great courage, a healthy and permanent distrust of politicians of any party, a sharp wit, a devastating pen and principles as deep, wide and awe-inspiring as the Grand Canyon.

The Guardian

Chief among them is Peter Dinklage, whose Tyrion Lannister is a silver-tongued devil with a prodigious capacity for wine, women and revenge scenarios.

BBC

Breast cancer has a prodigious capacity to metastasize to bone.

British Journal of Cancer

What little is known about stem cells in the mammary gland indicates that they possess a prodigious capacity for self-renewal.

Breast Cancer Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

It also required a prodigious lung capacity, since Spurs pressed assiduously, earned the majority of possession, and had the patience and resilience to overcome the concession of an early Mesut Özil goal.

Independent

With that courage came his prodigious capacity for hard work – after all, at his core he was a working-class man and proud of his birthright.

The Guardian

Their coupe – despite its prodigious capacity for speed – is not sporty, and it is certainly not a sports car.

BBC

Many friends speak of her prodigious capacity for work.

The New York Times

In contrast, Mr. Tadie's biography feels like a ponderous academic exercise -- an exercise designed not for the reader's edification or pleasure but to showcase the author's own erudition and prodigious capacity for research.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a prodigious capacity" to emphasize an exceptional or remarkable ability, especially when describing learning, memory, or work ethic.

Common error

Avoid using "a prodigious capacity" when describing everyday abilities. This phrase is best reserved for truly extraordinary talents or potential.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a prodigious capacity" functions as a noun phrase, where 'prodigious' is an adjective modifying the noun 'capacity'. It describes the extent or scope of someone's ability, talent, or potential. Ludwig AI shows examples where it modifies words like 'work', 'absorb facts', and 'exercise'.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a prodigious capacity" is a noun phrase used to describe an exceptionally great ability or potential. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage in formal contexts like news, media, and scientific articles. While grammatically sound, it's best reserved for describing truly remarkable talents. Consider related phrases like "immense capability" or "exceptional talent" to adjust the level of emphasis. Remember, it's more than just a high level of ability; it's an ability that impresses and stands out.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an immense capability

Emphasizes the scale and extent of the ability.

an exceptional talent

Highlights the natural aptitude and skill.

a remarkable ability

Focuses on the noteworthiness and distinctiveness of the capacity.

an extraordinary potential

Stresses the undeveloped, future-oriented aspect of the capacity.

a boundless aptitude

Suggests that the capacity has no limits.

a limitless gift

Implies a natural talent without restrictions.

a vast competence

Highlights a broad and comprehensive skill set.

a massive talent

Focuses on the great size or scale of the talent.

an expansive skill

Suggests an ability that continues to grow and develop.

a considerable knack

Implies an inherent talent or skill.

FAQs

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

You can use "a prodigious capacity" to describe someone or something that has an extraordinary ability, such as "He had "a prodigious capacity" for remembering names and faces."

What are some alternatives to "a prodigious capacity"?

Alternatives include "immense capability", "exceptional talent", or "remarkable ability", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a prodigious capacity" in formal writing?

Yes, "a prodigious capacity" is suitable for formal writing, especially when describing significant or noteworthy abilities. It's frequently found in news articles and academic texts.

What's the difference between "a prodigious capacity" and "a great capacity"?

"A prodigious capacity" implies an ability that is remarkably or impressively great, whereas "a great capacity" simply indicates a high level of ability. The former carries a stronger emphasis on the exceptional nature of the ability.