capability

USAGE SUMMARY

"capability" is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it to talk about a person or thing's ability or potential to do something. For example, "The new software has the capability to do more complex tasks than the previous version."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The MPs and peers suggested that the new legislation should list every intrusive capability available to the security services and specify their purpose, authorisation procedure and what safeguards and oversight procedures exist for their use.

The Guardian

The upcoming spending review provides a renewed opportunity to develop this approach for more difficult and complex social issues, and to bring greater scale, ambition and capability to help the vast numbers of people who have fallen through the cracks of confusing and siloed public services.

The Guardian

The ISC says it agrees and recommends that the new surveillance law should list each intrusive capability available to MI5, MI6 and GCHQ and the human rights obligations that constrain their use.

The Guardian

A cash-strapped Tory- or Labour-led administration is likely to further weaken Britain's defence capability and its outward-facing global stance.

The Guardian

We need to help build the capability of our next generation of leaders so a diverse and inclusive workforce can be achieved.

The Guardian

Mujtaba is in his mid-20s, has fought in Syria, and has little faith in the Iraqi army's capability to fight this war.

The Guardian

I don't know if that exists in all the other states that use their intelligence capability or military capability in that fashion… they certainly are incredible capabilities but they need to be used for the right purposes".

The Guardian - Tech

It is a development that the US, EU and other allies, including those in Nato, fear because it would weaken Britain's international standing and place a question over its Trident submarine nuclear defence capability – currently based in Holy Loch in Scotland.

The Guardian

Another is that our political masters didn't appreciate the capability of digital computing and communications technology.

The Guardian - Tech

"It is difficult terrain, and so we want to make sure that when we take that on, that we have the adequate capability, and we've set the conditions right to get things done," Austin said.

The Guardian

He said: What I'd really like is for organisations like this to have a little bit more respect for individuals like ourselves you have the capability to speak for ourselves.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "capability" to denote a specific power or ability an entity possesses, especially when discussing strategic planning, technological advancements, or human potential.

Common error

Be mindful of using "capability" excessively in contexts where simpler words like "ability" or "potential" suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound inflated or jargon-heavy.

Linguistic Context

The word "capability" functions primarily as a noun, representing the power or ability to generate a specific outcome. Ludwig AI confirms this, providing numerous examples from reliable sources demonstrating its use in various contexts, such as discussing military, technological, or organizational strengths.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "capability" is a noun used to describe the power or ability to generate an outcome. Ludwig AI's analysis shows the word is grammatically correct and very common, especially in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science contexts. While interchangeable with words like "ability" or "capacity", "capability" often suggests a developed or strategic ability. It is important to avoid overusing the word as a buzzword and to use it appropriately to enhance clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capacity

Focuses on the maximum amount that something can contain or produce, often used in technical or formal contexts.

ability

A general term for the power or skill to do something, interchangeable in many contexts.

potential

Emphasizes the possibility of future achievement or development.

aptitude

Implies a natural talent or tendency for a particular activity.

competence

Highlights the quality of being adequately qualified or capable.

proficiency

Indicates a high degree of skill or expertise.

expertise

Suggests specialized knowledge or skill in a particular area.

skill set

Refers to a specific range of abilities needed for a particular task or job.

know-how

Implies practical knowledge and skill.

resources

Indicates the availability of assets and means to accomplish a task.

FAQs

How can I use "capability" in a sentence?

You can use "capability" to describe the power or ability to do something. For instance, "The company invested in improving its manufacturing capability".

What is a good alternative to "capability"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "capacity", "ability", or "potential".

When is it more appropriate to use "capability" over "ability"?

"Capability" often implies a strategic or developed ability, whereas "ability" is a more general term. Use "capability" when referring to a developed or potential capacity. For instance, a nation's military capability vs. a person's ability to learn.

Is "capability" the same as "competence"?

While related, "capability" refers to the potential to perform, while "competence" suggests proven skills and qualifications. "Capability" is about what can be, and competence is about what is.