capacity for expression

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "capacity for expression" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's ability to convey thoughts, feelings, or ideas effectively through various forms of communication. Example: "The artist's capacity for expression is evident in her vibrant paintings that evoke deep emotions."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

These findings support the theory that CD44 is expressed by normal prostatic epithelium and that capacity for expression is lost during the alterations in structural differentiation that occur in the course of the transition to neoplastic tissue.

BMC Cancer

"There is plenty of capacity for expression in this station".

The New York Times

The result supports a model in which DNA-methylation patterns allow a higher capacity for expression of genes involved in glycogen storage and metabolism in active than inactive men (Fig. 2A, Supplementary Dataset 2).

Nature

To investigate whether the increased capacity for expression of central glycolytic and TCA cycle genes was also evident at the protein level, we analyzed key enzymes in oxidative metabolism by western blotting and enzyme activity assays.

Nature

But most of all, he is a philosopher, whose art works to find intimacy and humanity in digital culture; meditating on how the technological singularity, the future when we could become outsmarted by machines, will impact our humanness and our capacity for expression.

The Guardian - Music

Language is amazing; no other animal has the capacity for expression that we do.

HuffPost

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

"As with prose poetry, the lyric essay expands our awareness of what poetry can be and do, further nuancing our capacities for expression and understanding," she said.

The Guardian - Books

"If, as may be, the holocausts at the rim of possibility do soon visit us, I am confident my capacities for expression can rise, if I live, to the occasion.

The New York Times - Books

Hernadi (2001) explains that a Darwinian idea of "literature" encompasses a range of transactions that "challenge and thus enhance our brains' vital capacities for expression, communication, representation and signification" (56).

Evolution: Education and Outreach

These two interpretations of art have, of course, their corresponding features in aesthetics, which sometimes comes across as the attempt to critically articulate our artistic capacities for expression and sometimes as the discussion of trifles for persons of leisure.

SEP

Butch and femme, masculinity and femininity, are capacities for expression.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "capacity for expression" when you want to emphasize the potential or inherent ability to communicate effectively, whether through language, art, or other means. Consider the specific context to choose the most appropriate form of expression.

Common error

While "capacity for expression" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation. In such situations, simpler alternatives like "ability to express" or "skill in communication" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "capacity for expression" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It indicates the inherent or potential ability to communicate thoughts, feelings, or ideas. This is supported by Ludwig's examples, where it often modifies other nouns, describing a feature or characteristic. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "capacity for expression" describes the inherent or potential ability to communicate effectively. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While "capacity for expression" is not as common as other phrases, it appears in various contexts, most frequently in science and news media. When using "capacity for expression", it's helpful to remember that it denotes potential or inherent ability, and simpler alternatives might be more suitable in informal settings. Considering the specific context helps ensure effective communication. The related phrases, such as "ability to express" or "potential for articulation", can provide nuanced alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ability to express

Focuses on the general capability rather than potential.

potential for articulation

Emphasizes clarity and eloquence in communication.

aptitude for communication

Highlights a natural talent or inclination.

facility with language

Suggests ease and skill in using language.

power of articulation

Implies a strong and effective ability to convey ideas.

talent for conveying

Focuses on the skill in transmitting information or feelings.

skill in representing

Emphasizes the ability to accurately depict or symbolize something.

knack for portraying

Suggests a natural and effortless ability to depict or represent.

capability to manifest

Highlights the potential to make something visible or evident.

resources for communication

Focuses on having available materials for communication.

FAQs

How can I use "capacity for expression" in a sentence?

You can use "capacity for expression" to describe someone's ability to communicate thoughts, feelings, or ideas effectively. For instance, "The course aims to enhance students' "capacity for expression" through writing and speaking exercises."

What are some alternatives to "capacity for expression"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "ability to express", "skill in communication", or "potential for articulation".

Is it correct to say "capability for expression" instead of "capacity for expression"?

Yes, "capability for expression" is also correct, although "capacity" often implies a more inherent or potential ability, while "capability" suggests a demonstrated ability.

What is the difference between "capacity for expression" and "freedom of expression"?

"Capacity for expression" refers to the ability or potential to communicate, while "freedom of expression" refers to the right to express one's opinions without censorship or restraint.