Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
capability to function
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "capability to function" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the ability or capacity of something to operate or perform its intended tasks. Example: "The new software has the capability to function seamlessly across multiple platforms."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Encyclopedias
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
14 human-written examples
To him, poverty is the lack of capability to function, so reducing it is related to positive freedom.
News & Media
Also, being an integrate-and-fire neuron, it has an inherent capability to function as a coincidence detector.
Science
In a Chinese dataset (samples from patients with gastric cancer), although Helicobacter was found to be absent, Wolinella (another member of the Helicobacteraceae family) was seen to be dominated and acted as the hub of the network, suggesting its capability to function like Helicobacter.
Science & Research
Altogether, this supports their capability to function as erythrose reductases.
Science
What CQ measures is the capability to function effectively in a variety of national, ethnic and organizational settings.
News & Media
Developed by Amartya Sen, the capability approach advocates that programmes are evaluated based on their impact on the extent to which a person is able (has the capability) to function in a particular way [26].
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
46 human-written examples
Attention is also focusing on broadening the moles' capabilities to function as the primary machine of the whole tunneling system.
Encyclopedias
Each person is to be sustained throughout her life, so far as this is feasible, in the capabilities to function at a satisfactory level in all of the ways necessary for full membership and participation in democratic society.
Science
In other words, those interpersonal evaluations should be conceptualized in terms of people's capabilities to function, that is, their effective opportunities to undertake actions and activities that they have reason to value, and be the person that they have reason to want to be.
Science
It is the first drug approved by the FDA for the symptomatic management of MS patients, and has the capability to improve function and quality of life in those with motor weakness and ambulatory impairment.
Science
The CTO really stressed how critical the improvements that they've been making to the data pipeline at Reddit were and how they will allow his team "the capability to build functions like search, relevancy, personalization and really good recommendations".
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "capability to function", ensure the context clearly defines the specific function being referred to. Be precise about what something is capable of doing.
Common error
Avoid using "capability to function" in vague contexts. Always specify the area in which the capability applies. For example, instead of saying "The system has the capability to function effectively", specify "The system has the capability to function effectively in low-bandwidth environments".
Source & Trust
80%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "capability to function" serves as a noun phrase functioning as the subject or object of a sentence, often followed by a verb that describes how that capability is utilized. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability, supporting its role in conveying the ability or capacity of something to operate or perform.
Frequent in
Science
57%
News & Media
21%
Academia
14%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
4%
Wiki
2%
Formal & Business
2%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "capability to function" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase that describes the ability or capacity of something to operate. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for formal and technical contexts, particularly in science, technology, and engineering. For clarity, always specify what the capability refers to, avoiding vague or overly broad statements. Alternatives include "ability to operate" and "capacity to perform". By following these guidelines, you can effectively use this phrase in your writing.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
ability to operate
This focuses on the direct capacity to perform specific actions or tasks.
capacity to perform
Highlights the potential and scope of what can be achieved.
potential to work
Emphasizes the inherent possibility and readiness to be effective.
aptitude to execute
Indicates a natural talent or learned skill for carrying out tasks.
competence to act
Focuses on the qualification and skill to take action effectively.
power to influence
Shifts the emphasis to the ability to affect or change something.
efficacy to serve
Highlights the effectiveness and suitability for a specific purpose.
resourcefulness to manage
Indicates the ability to creatively solve problems and handle situations.
proficiency in application
Emphasizes skill and expertise in putting knowledge to practical use.
effectiveness in implementation
Focuses on the successful execution and practical application of plans or ideas.
FAQs
How can I use "capability to function" in a sentence?
You can use "capability to function" to describe the ability of something to operate or perform its intended tasks. For example: "The software has the "capability to function" seamlessly across multiple platforms."
What are some alternatives to "capability to function"?
Alternatives include "ability to operate", "capacity to perform", or "potential to work", depending on the specific context.
Is it better to say "capability to function" or "ability to function"?
Both "capability to function" and "ability to function" are correct. "Capability" often implies a higher degree of potential or inherent capacity, while "ability" suggests a demonstrated skill. The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.
In technical writing, is "capability to function" considered formal?
Yes, "capability to function" is suitable for formal and technical writing. It is often used in scientific, engineering, and business contexts to describe the functional attributes of systems, processes, or entities.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
80%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested