capacity to survive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "capacity to survive" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing resilience, endurance, or the ability to withstand challenges or adverse conditions. Example: "The species demonstrated a remarkable capacity to survive in harsh environments, adapting to changes in climate and food availability."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They have an extraordinary capacity to survive.

The New York Times

For Bellono, the Fiom trade unionist, "Industrial models also have to be appraised on their capacity to survive".

The Guardian

When the United States developed the capacity to survive a first strike, the Soviets did the same.

The New Yorker

If banks have more capital, they have a greater capacity to survive negative shocks, like slumps in real-estate prices.

The New Yorker

This report shares findings and provides perspectives for partnerships to consider as they seek to build their capacity to survive and to thrive over time.

Harvard University

Resilience is the capacity to survive, to bounce back and to innovate in the wake of extraordinary stress or unexpected crises.

University of California, Berkeley

I wanted them to see it as a way of marvelling at, as well as celebrating, the body's capacity to survive and evolve before it erodes".

The Guardian

Similarly, the US is able to understand that industry is key and the level of innovation in things like iPods shows that they have a capacity to survive.

The Guardian - Business

A nationalistic, nativist, protectionist, and authoritarian movement that will forever be associated with him, but which also has the capacity to survive beyond him.

The New Yorker

An independent perspective means being sensitive to internal factors that shape the organization's capacity to survive and thrive as it confronts current and future challenges.

Harvard Business Review

Of the rebellion's capacity to survive, there is no doubt; the BBC's extraordinary and brave report from the fighting in Aleppo proves that.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the "capacity to survive" in specific contexts, clearly identify the threats or challenges being overcome. Providing concrete examples strengthens your argument and enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid attributing a "capacity to survive" without sufficient evidence. Ensure that the subject has demonstrated tangible signs of resilience rather than merely possessing the potential.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "capacity to survive" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's frequently used to describe the inherent or developed ability to withstand adverse conditions, as shown in numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

29%

News & Media

42%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "capacity to survive" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase that denotes the ability to withstand and overcome challenges. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it finds extensive application across diverse fields such as science, news media, and academia. While versatile, it is most commonly employed in neutral to formal contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that you specify the challenges being faced and provide evidence of resilience. Alternatives such as "ability to endure" and "power of resilience" can offer nuanced variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ability to endure

Focuses on the inherent power to withstand hardships.

capability to withstand

Highlights the potential to resist external pressures.

power of resilience

Emphasizes the active process of bouncing back from adversity.

potential for longevity

Shifts the focus to long-term existence and persistence.

skill at preservation

Highlights the learned or developed ability to maintain existence.

talent for thriving

Implies a natural aptitude for not just surviving, but flourishing.

resourcefulness in crisis

Emphasizes the ability to find and utilize resources during difficult times.

tenacity in adversity

Focuses on the unwavering determination to persist despite challenges.

fortitude to persevere

Highlights the mental and emotional strength required to continue.

determination to persist

Emphasizes the resolve and commitment to continue existing.

FAQs

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

You can use "capacity to survive" to describe the ability of an organism, system, or organization to withstand and overcome challenges. For example: "The species demonstrated a remarkable "capacity to survive" in harsh conditions."

What are some alternatives to "capacity to survive"?

Some alternatives include "ability to endure", "capability to withstand", or "power of resilience", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "capacity to survive" a formal or informal expression?

"Capacity to survive" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal or scientific writing, consider using synonyms like "ability to persist" or "potential for longevity" for a more precise tone.

What's the difference between "capacity to survive" and "capacity to thrive"?

"Capacity to survive" refers to the basic ability to continue existing despite challenges, while "capacity to thrive" implies not only survival but also growth and flourishing. Thriving suggests a higher level of adaptation and success beyond mere existence.