a universal human capacity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a universal human capacity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an ability or trait that is inherent to all humans, often in discussions about psychology, philosophy, or anthropology. Example: "Empathy is often considered a universal human capacity that allows individuals to connect with others on a deeper emotional level."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

In essence, mindfulness – being about attention, awareness, relationality, and caring – is a universal human capacity akin to our capacity for language acquisition.

The Guardian - Opinion

Reason, they mostly claimed, was a universal human capacity independent of corporeal differences (Wollstonecraft, Mill and Taylor Mill).

SEP

Resilience has also been conceptualized as a universal human capacity to cope with traumatic events, but that this capacity needs encouragement and support within a facilitative environment to enable resilience to win over vulnerability and risk [ 14].

Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

From this perspective, culture itself, rather than rationality, is the universal human capacity.

SEP

The paradox of enlightenment anti-imperialism is that human dignity is understood to be rooted in the universal human capacity for reason.

SEP

It is only through acknowledgment of the universal human capacity for evil that we can overcome it.

Huffington Post

It says a great deal about the distinctions we need to make, says De Waal, that Smith, who is so well known for his emphasis on self-interest, also wrote about the universal human capacity for sympathy (2006: 15).

Biology and Philosophy

They're a "universal human activity and a unifier of humanity".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The prevalence and continual recreation of such associations suggests that the capacity and motivation to construct enduring, intergenerational coalitions are components of a universal human psychology.

Human Nature

At the same time, Lomas said, Lahti framed sisu as "a universal human capacity it just so happened that the Finns had noticed it and coined a word for it".

The New Yorker

But running is a universal human activity.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a universal human capacity", ensure that the context clearly defines the specific ability or trait being discussed. Providing concrete examples can enhance clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "a universal human capacity" to describe abilities that are influenced by culture, environment, or individual differences. Ensure that the capacity is truly inherent and shared by all humans, not just a majority.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a universal human capacity" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object of a sentence. It describes an ability, quality, or potential that is inherent to all human beings. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a universal human capacity" is a grammatically sound and meaningful expression used to denote an ability or trait that is inherent to all human beings. As highlighted by Ludwig, this phrase appears most commonly in scientific, news, and encyclopedic contexts, indicating a formal and objective tone. When using this phrase, ensure you clearly define the specific capacity you are referencing to avoid overgeneralizations. Alternatives like "an inherent human ability" or "a common human attribute" can offer nuanced variations. Keep in mind, however, that while grief is "a universal human capacity", depression might not be.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an inherent human ability

Focuses on the innate nature of the ability.

a common human attribute

Emphasizes a characteristic or quality shared among people.

a fundamental human potential

Highlights the possibility and capacity for development.

an intrinsic human faculty

Stresses the natural and essential aspect of the human ability.

a basic human trait

Highlights the fundamental and typical qualities of humans.

a species-wide human capability

Emphasizes the ability's presence across the entire human species.

a shared human competence

Focuses on the proficiency or skill commonly possessed by humans.

a panhuman skill

Highlights the skill as existing across all humans.

an omnipresent human talent

Emphasizes the widespread nature of the human talent.

a ubiquitous human gift

Highlights the talent as a widespread, naturally occurring gift.

FAQs

How can I use "a universal human capacity" in a sentence?

You can use "a universal human capacity" to describe skills or characteristics inherent in all humans. For instance: "Mindfulness – being about attention, awareness, relationality, and caring – is "a universal human capacity" akin to our capacity for language acquisition."

What are some synonyms for "a universal human capacity"?

Some synonyms include "an inherent human ability", "a common human attribute", or "a fundamental human potential". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it accurate to describe emotions as "a universal human capacity"?

Yes, basic emotions like joy, sadness, anger, and fear are often considered "a universal human capacity", as they are experienced across cultures, although their expression may vary.

What's the difference between "a universal human capacity" and "a universal human right"?

"A universal human capacity" refers to an ability or trait inherent in all humans, while "a universal human right" is a moral principle or entitlement considered to belong to every person, such as the right to freedom of speech.