a small capacity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small capacity" is grammatically correct and usable in written English.
It is commonly used to describe an object, person, or group's ability to hold or contain something, whether it be physical space, information, or emotions. Example sentence: The ice cream maker has a small capacity, so it can only make one small batch at a time.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

This is a small capacity organ (around 150 millilitres) with frequent emptying; there is reflex control mediated through the sacral segments of the spinal cord; the higher centres do not restrain the detrusor, and the internal sphincter relaxes more readily.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He continued: "You have got to learn how to be gods yourselves... the same as all gods have done before you, namely, by going from one small degree to another, and from a small capacity to a great one; from grace to grace, from exaltation to exaltation, until you attain to the resurrection of the dead".

The New Yorker

What Dr Singh and his colleague and namesake Onkar Singh have done is to elaborate "a mathematical model of a small capacity compressed air driven multivane air turbine" (here is the paper's abstract).This is in no way to detract from their fascinating work.

The Economist

Initially, a mathematical model is developed to design a small capacity solar thermal tower system.

Energy and Buildings

The EHCS consists of a small capacity RPC, three sets of large capacity MSVC and high-pass filters.

Journal of Modern Power Systems and Clean Energy

In contrast, FeNb11O29 shows a small capacity of 57 mAh g−1 and small retention of 41.6%.

Electrochimica Acta

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

So if you stay in a smaller capacity, it's even more difficult.

The Guardian - Sport

The place The new Yankee Stadium, across the street from the old one in the Bronx, will actually have a smaller capacity (53,325).

The Guardian - Sport

For upscale or business travelers, he recommended, "higher-end European vessels that have a smaller capacity, but are very fast compared to traditional junks".

The New York Times - Travel

The iPhone 6S Plus promises richer interactions with a pressure sensitive screen, a better camera with new "Live Photos" and longer battery life, despite it having a smaller capacity battery.

The Guardian - Tech

With a smaller capacity of 1,000 songs, a price to match (around $250) and an eye-catching candy-coloured shell, the new player is already much in demand indeed, demand is currently far outstripping supply.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing technical specifications, use "a small capacity" to clearly indicate limited performance or size. For instance, "The device has a small capacity for data storage".

Common error

Don't just say something has "small capacity"; specify what the capacity is small for. For example, instead of "The battery has a small capacity", say "The battery has a small capacity for prolonged use."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small capacity" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase modifying a noun. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and used in varied contexts to specify a limitation in size, quantity, or capability. The examples show this phrase describing physical containers, data storage, and even abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

31%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a small capacity" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to denote limitations in size, volume, or capability. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is versatile, appearing across various contexts from scientific research to news reports. While generally neutral to formal, writers should ensure clarity by specifying what the "small capacity" refers to. Considering its common usage and straightforward meaning, "a small capacity" remains a reliable choice for conveying precise limitations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a limited volume

Emphasizes the restricted amount of space available.

a reduced capability

Highlights the diminished ability to perform a task or function.

a lower holding

Focuses on the reduced amount that can be held or contained.

a miniature container

Stresses the small physical size of a storage unit.

a minimal amount

Highlights the scant quantity available.

a negligible size

Emphasizes the unimportance of the size.

a restricted allowance

Concentrates on the limited permission or provision.

a tight space

Indicates cramped or confined conditions.

a shallow ability

Highlights a superficial or limited skill.

a trifling competence

Emphasizes the insignificance of the skill.

FAQs

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

You can use "a small capacity" to describe something that has limited space or ability to hold something. For example, "The water bottle has "a small capacity", so I need to refill it often."

What's a more formal way to say "a small capacity"?

In more formal contexts, you could use phrases like "limited volume" or "reduced capability", which convey a similar meaning with more professional language.

Is it ever incorrect to use "a small capacity"?

While grammatically correct, using "a small capacity" might be vague without proper context. Always clarify what the capacity refers to for better understanding. For example, is it regarding the size, the skill or the quantity?

What are some synonyms for "a small capacity"?

Synonyms include "a limited volume", "a reduced capability", or "a minimal amount depending" on the context.