capacity for violence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "capacity for violence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an individual's or group's potential or ability to engage in violent behavior. Example: "The study examined the psychological factors that contribute to a person's capacity for violence in stressful situations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Capacity for violence?

The Guardian - Opinion

He knew the Nazi capacity for violence.

The New York Times

Nor is their capacity for violence.

Independent

There is no disconnect between the driven, single-minded character and his capacity for violence.

The Guardian - Tech

Cunningly, this politeness conceals his rising anger and the listening tourist's capacity for violence.

The Guardian - Books

Drug traffickers became paramilitary forces, transforming their capacity for violence into political power.

The Guardian - Books

Then there were the troubling occasions when he showed a capacity for violence.

The New York Times

We understand his grievance and believe in his capacity for violence.

Independent

The Kenyan media's self-restraint reveals a society terrified by its own capacity for violence.

The New York Times

And Mr. Stockman's Danny never seems to possess the capacity for violence others describe.

The New York Times

Our ancestors had a capacity for violence, but this was just one capacity among many.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing abstract concepts like societal trends, use "capacity for violence" to highlight the potential rather than the active engagement in violence.

Common error

Avoid using "capacity for violence" when describing situations of minor conflict or disagreement. It is better suited for scenarios where there is a genuine risk of significant harm.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "capacity for violence" functions as a noun phrase, describing a potential or ability. It indicates the inherent capability to perform violent actions, as evidenced by examples in Ludwig where it's used to discuss individuals', groups', or even a regime's inherent potential for violent behavior.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Academia

13%

Science

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "capacity for violence" is a commonly used term to describe the potential or ability to engage in violent behavior. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, media, and academic discussions. It's essential to use this phrase thoughtfully, avoiding overstatement in situations of minor conflict. Alternatives such as "potential for aggression" or "ability to inflict harm" can provide nuanced meanings. With examples from authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian, the phrase demonstrates its widespread use in analyzing both individual and societal tendencies towards violence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

potential for aggression

Focuses on the underlying potential for aggressive behavior.

ability to inflict harm

Emphasizes the capability to cause physical or emotional damage.

propensity for brutality

Highlights an inclination towards cruel and savage acts.

tendency toward aggression

Suggests a leaning or predisposition to act aggressively.

potential for destructiveness

Emphasizes the possibility of causing widespread damage or ruin.

capability for mayhem

Highlights the ability to create chaos and disorder.

latent violence

Implies violence that is hidden but may emerge.

inclination to use force

Suggests a predisposition to employ physical power.

readiness to resort to violence

Emphasizes the quickness to use violence as a solution.

warlike nature

Describes an inherent inclination towards conflict and aggression.

FAQs

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

You can use "capacity for violence" to describe an individual's or a group's potential to engage in violent acts. For example, "The study explored the factors influencing an individual's "capacity for violence"".

What are some alternatives to "capacity for violence"?

Alternatives include "potential for aggression", "ability to inflict harm", or "propensity for brutality", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "capacity for violence" in all contexts?

No, "capacity for violence" is best used when discussing the potential for significant harm or aggression. It might be inappropriate in contexts involving minor disagreements or conflicts.

What is the difference between "capacity for violence" and "potential for violence"?

While similar, "capacity for violence" emphasizes the inherent ability to engage in violent acts, whereas "potential for violence" suggests a possibility that may or may not be realized.