build capacity

USAGE SUMMARY

"build capacity" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a goal or a strategy to increase a person or organization’s ability to do something. For example: Our nonprofit plans to build capacity in the local community by offering free classes on computer skills.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Yet building the reputation of the NHS beyond these shores could build capacity and capability.

The Guardian

"We need to build capacity.

The New York Times

Goal #2: Build capacity in evaluation.

Harvard University

"And even from day one you can build capacity".

The Guardian

The third is to build capacity in war-ravaged countries.

The Economist

The challenge is to build capacity for better water thinking.

Princeton University

Essayan-Perez hopes to build capacity in these rural villages.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The Australian government says PNG staff are being assisted to build capacity for future employment.

The Guardian

It will allow such hospitals to build capacity by chasing the private patient pound.

The Guardian - Opinion

It will build capacity among police and parents and work on public campaigns and education.

The Guardian

At a time like this you've got to try to build capacity and be sustainable.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "build capacity" when referring to a long-term, sustainable improvement rather than a temporary fix.

Common error

Avoid using "build capacity" as a generic term without specifying what kind of capacity is being developed. Without context, the phrase can become meaningless.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "build capacity" functions as a verb phrase where "build" is the verb and "capacity" is the noun serving as the direct object. It describes the action of increasing or developing ability or resources. Ludwig AI indicates it's correct and widely usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Academia

29%

Science

32%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "build capacity" is a widely used and grammatically correct term that describes the action of developing or enhancing abilities, resources, or infrastructure. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for use in diverse contexts, including news, academia, and science. The phrase is most commonly used to describe initiatives aimed at improving the effectiveness and sustainability of a system or organization. While "build capacity" is a powerful phrase, it is important to use it with specificity and clarity, as vague applications can render it meaningless. Alternatives such as "develop capabilities", "enhance competence", and "strengthen resources" can provide more nuanced descriptions depending on the intended meaning. Overall, "build capacity" is a valuable term for describing growth and improvement, but it should be used thoughtfully and precisely to maximize its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

construct capacity

This alternative places more emphasis on the act of creating or assembling capacity from the ground up.

develop capabilities

Focuses on the evolution and refinement of existing skills and resources.

enhance competence

Highlights the improvement of proficiency and skill in a specific area.

expand infrastructure

Concentrates specifically on the physical and organizational structures that support operations.

strengthen resources

Emphasizes reinforcing and making existing resources more robust.

foster expertise

Suggests nurturing and cultivating specialized knowledge and skill.

grow ability

Highlights the gradual increase and development of inherent capabilities.

increase resources

Focuses on augmenting available supplies and assets.

improve skills

Highlights the refining and enhancement of practical abilities.

cultivate talents

Implies carefully nurturing and developing innate abilities.

FAQs

How do I use "build capacity" in a sentence?

You can use "build capacity" to describe efforts to increase skill or ability. For example, "The program aims to "build capacity" among local healthcare workers".

What are some alternatives to "build capacity"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "develop capabilities", "enhance competence", or "strengthen resources".

Is it better to say "build capacity" or "increase capacity"?

"Build capacity" often implies a more comprehensive and long-term development of skills and resources, while "increase capacity" may refer to a more immediate or quantitative expansion. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean to "build capacity" in an organization?

To "build capacity" in an organization means to enhance its ability to effectively achieve its mission by improving its skills, resources, systems, and overall effectiveness.