capability of doing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "capability of doing" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is usually used to express a potentiality to do something. For example, "He has the capability of doing great things."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

"He's got the capability of doing that every night out".

The Guardian - Sport

"As an artist I have the capability of doing anything".

Independent

"This movie says that we have the capability of doing this kind of thing.

The New York Times - Style

They have the capability of doing the job, and if they're consistent, we'll be fine.

The New York Times - Sports

He added: "I think these guys have the capability of doing that.

The New York Times

"Obviously, they have a capability of doing both, and the intention of doing both".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

" 'You have those capabilities of doing that.

The New York Times - Sports

"We have the capabilities of doing this, we just haven't shown the will".

The New Yorker

It's a very difficult and long run but I believe this team has the capabilities of doing it.

Independent

We've got the capabilities of doing so.

BBC

Yasiel's got the capabilities of doing a lot of stuff".

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a specific skill, use "capability of doing" to highlight a potential or inherent ability. For instance, "The software has the capability of doing complex calculations" emphasizes its potential.

Common error

Avoid using "capability of doing" in simple sentences where "can" or "able to" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily formal or complex. Instead of saying "He has the capability of doing that", consider "He can do that".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "capability of doing" functions as a noun phrase acting as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It indicates the potential or inherent ability to perform a specific action. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "capability of doing" is a grammatically correct and widely used phrase that denotes the potential or inherent ability to perform an action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for various contexts, ranging from news and media to scientific and formal writing. While "capability of doing" is often interchangeable with alternatives like "ability to do" and "capacity to do", it is important to be mindful of the level of formality and avoid overuse in contexts where simpler alternatives suffice. By understanding its nuances and potential pitfalls, you can effectively use "capability of doing" in your writing to convey a sense of potential and inherent skill. Always consider the context to make an appropriate decision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ability to do

Replaces 'capability' with the more common 'ability', simplifying the phrase while retaining the core meaning.

capacity to do

Substitutes 'capability' with 'capacity', another word for potential or ability, offering a formal alternative.

potential for doing

Emphasizes the inherent possibility rather than the demonstrated ability, shifting the focus slightly.

aptitude for doing

Highlights a natural inclination or talent, suggesting an innate suitability for the task.

means of doing

Focuses on the resources or methods available to perform the action, rather than the ability itself.

skill in doing

Highlights the expertise or proficiency in performing the action, emphasizing the developed talent.

facility for doing

Suggests ease and smoothness in performing the action, indicating a natural talent or developed skill.

competence in doing

Emphasizes the qualified or skilled nature of the action, highlighting proficiency and mastery.

prowess in doing

Denotes exceptional skill and bravery in performing the action, suggesting a high level of expertise and daring.

wherewithal to do

Indicates the necessary resources (money, skill, etc.) to accomplish something, focusing on possessing the means.

FAQs

How can I use "capability of doing" in a sentence?

Use "capability of doing" to describe someone or something's inherent potential or skill to perform a specific action. For example, "The new engine has the "capability of doing" 0 to 60 in under 5 seconds".

What are some alternatives to "capability of doing"?

You can use alternatives like "ability to do", "potential for doing", or "capacity to do" depending on the context.

Which is more formal, "capability of doing" or "able to do"?

"Capability of doing" is generally more formal and emphasizes potential or inherent skill, while "able to do" is more direct and indicates a present ability.

What's the difference between "capability of doing" and "possibility of doing"?

"Capability of doing" refers to the inherent ability or skill to perform an action, while "possibility of doing" refers to whether something is feasible or likely to happen. Capability focuses on the actor's power to do something, while possibility focuses on whether it can be done.