a reduced capacity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a reduced capacity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where something is functioning at a lower level or efficiency than normal. Example: "Due to the ongoing maintenance, the facility will operate at a reduced capacity for the next two weeks."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It also appears that as we age we have a reduced capacity for sleep, or potentially, even a reduced "need" for sleep.

The New York Times

We also found that aggregative strains showed a reduced capacity for colonizing new patches from single cells, which may reflect a reduced capacity to exchange growth and survival factors essential at low density [ 32].

BMC Evolutionary Biology

The embassy will maintain personnel, though in a reduced capacity.

The Guardian

They signal a polity with a reduced capacity to respond to changing needs".

The New York Times - Books

He said the government would continue in a reduced capacity until elections were held.

The New York Times

She said the organisation had enough cash in contingency reserves to keep running, albeit at a reduced capacity.

The Guardian

The result is a downward spiral in economic activity and a reduced capacity to afford social-equity programs.

The New Yorker

Patients with HL deficiency have a reduced capacity to synthesize ketone bodies.

Molecular Genetics and Metabolism

In most passengers this is fine, but if she has a reduced capacity to carry the oxygen available, this could lead to fainting.

The Guardian - Travel

It was being upgraded – partly to make sure this sort of situation didn't arise in the future – and while that was happening, it had a reduced capacity.

The Guardian

The programs are still coming, Carnegie announced on Tuesday, and so is Mr. Ozawa, though in a reduced capacity.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a situation where resources or abilities are temporarily limited, use "a reduced capacity" to clearly indicate the current state. This is particularly useful in formal reports or news articles to convey a sense of objective assessment.

Common error

Avoid using "a reduced capacity" in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "less able" or "not working as well" are often more appropriate and natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a reduced capacity" functions as a modifier, specifically an adjective phrase, describing the state or condition of a noun. Ludwig indicates the phrase is correct and usable. The adjective "reduced" modifies the noun "capacity", indicating a decrease in the ability or capability to perform a specific function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a reduced capacity" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that describes a state of limitation or decreased functionality. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability across varied contexts. Predominantly found in scientific and news media, it conveys a sense of objective assessment, and is most appropriate in formal writing. While it's essential to avoid overuse in informal conversation, mastering its usage ensures clarity and precision in professional communication. Alternative phrases like "limited capability" or "diminished potential" can also be considered depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Limited capability

Focuses on the inherent restriction in ability rather than a reduction from a previous state.

Weakened capacity

Similar to reduced, but implies a loss of strength or resilience.

Diminished potential

Highlights the decreased possibility for future performance or development.

Impaired functionality

Emphasizes the compromised operational effectiveness of a system or process.

Decreased output

Specifically refers to a lower level of production or results.

Lowered efficiency

Indicates a decline in the ratio of output to input.

Compromised ability

Highlights that some ability or skill has been negatively affected.

Restricted performance

Focuses on limitations in how well something operates.

Limited scope

Highlights that some kind of activity or operation has a restricted range.

Scaled-down operation

More specifically describes the result of an intentional reduction in operational size or intensity.

FAQs

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

You can use "a reduced capacity" to describe situations where something is operating with limitations. For example, "The hospital is operating at "a reduced capacity" due to staff shortages" or "The factory is running at "a reduced capacity" because of supply chain issues".

What are some alternatives to saying "a reduced capacity"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "limited ability", "decreased output", "impaired functionality", or "diminished potential" as alternatives to "a reduced capacity".

Is it better to say "reduced capacity" or "limited capacity"?

Both "reduced capacity" and "limited capacity" are correct, but they have slightly different nuances. "Reduced capacity" implies a decrease from a previous level, while "limited capacity" suggests an inherent restriction. Choose the phrase that best fits the specific context.

What's the difference between "a reduced capacity" and "lower capacity"?

"A reduced capacity" usually implies a temporary or intentional decrease in functionality or production. On the other hand, "lower capacity" suggests a smaller capability or amount from the beginning, or simply being less performing. The best choice depends on the specifics of the situation.