capacity to operate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'capacity to operate' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to describe the capability, potential, or skill to successfully complete a task. For example: The computer has the capacity to operate quickly and efficiently.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

Britain is also offering air-to-air refuelling capacity to operate outside the UK, but based in Britain.

The Guardian

Hence the new emphasis on a light security footprint, with the capacity to operate fast and flexibly.

The Economist

Second, the goal should be to restore the Palestinian Authority's capacity to operate -- not to replace self-government, but to support it.

The New York Times

In Houston, Mayor Bill White sought local expertise to set up satellite trucks with FEMA specifications to improve the agency's capacity to operate its computers in the area.

The New York Times

"The evidence indicates," Mr. Ashcroft said on Thursday, "that flight training was received in the United States and that their capacity to operate the aircraft was substantial".

The New York Times

The kidnapping occurred 47 miles south of the border, suggesting that the rebels have the capacity to operate deep inside Ecuador.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

The capacity of HSR rolling stock reflects its size expressed by the number of trains of a given seating capacity required to operate under the conditions specified in the timetable.

Journal of Modern Transportation

She does not have the motor skills or the necessary mental capacity required to operate a vehicle safely.

Huffington Post

The department needs more support and capacity building to operate effectively.

Unicef

Given the historic dependency of Ghana on hydro (with relatively unchanged generating capacities) and the trend in current power consumption, what is more troubling is for the thermal plants (with relatively little addition to the generating capacity in 2015) to operate under capacity.

Energy, Sustainability and Society

Technical problems in the past 12 months have raised serious concerns about Iran's capacity to competently operate the facility.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "capacity to operate", ensure the context clearly defines what is being operated and the scope of the capacity. For example, specify if you're referring to technical, financial, or human resources.

Common error

Avoid using "capacity to operate" without specifying what system, process, or equipment is being operated. Always provide specific context to prevent ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "capacity to operate" functions as a noun phrase followed by an infinitive, modifying another noun to specify its ability or potential to perform a specific action. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and is used to describe a capability, potential, or skill.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "capacity to operate" is a versatile term used to describe the potential or ability to function effectively, applicable across various contexts like technical systems, organizations, and personal skills. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used in formal and neutral settings. To ensure clarity, specify what exactly is being operated and the scope of the capacity. Common alternatives include "ability to function" or "capability to perform". While predominantly found in news, science, and business contexts, the phrase maintains a consistent meaning and usage across different domains, indicating its wide acceptance and utility in English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ability to function

Focuses on the general ability to perform a task or activity.

capability to perform

Emphasizes the potential or inherent skill to execute specific actions.

competence to manage

Highlights the proficiency and skill in handling or controlling something.

resources to run

Stresses the availability of necessary assets for operation.

potential to utilize

Focuses on the untapped capability to make use of something.

means to conduct

Emphasizes the resources and methods available for carrying out a task.

proficiency to execute

Highlights the skill and expertise in carrying out a plan or task effectively.

power to control

Focuses on the authority and ability to direct or regulate something.

wherewithal to handle

Highlights the necessary means and skills to deal with a situation.

aptitude to work

Emphasizes the natural talent or inclination to perform work effectively.

FAQs

How can I use "capacity to operate" in a sentence?

You can use "capacity to operate" to describe the ability or resources needed for something to function. For example, "The new generator increased the hospital's "capacity to operate" during power outages".

What are some alternatives to "capacity to operate"?

Some alternatives include "ability to function", "capability to perform", or "competence to manage", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "capability to operate" instead of "capacity to operate"?

Both "capacity" and "capability" can be used, but "capacity" often refers to the potential or maximum amount, while "capability" refers to the actual ability or skill. The choice depends on the intended nuance.

What's the difference between "capacity to operate" and "ability to operate"?

"Capacity to operate" generally refers to the potential or maximum extent to which something can function, while "ability to operate" refers to the current or demonstrated skill to function. "Capacity" implies potential, whereas "ability" implies current competence.