capitalizes on

USAGE SUMMARY

"capitalizes on" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It means to take advantage of or utilize something in order to achieve success or gain an advantage. Example: The marketing team capitalized on the latest trends to promote their new product, resulting in a significant increase in sales.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

As if one powerful coolant weren't enough, this aftershave recipe capitalizes on two: cucumber and mint.

WikiHow

She capitalizes on every mistake you make.

The New York Times - Sports

It capitalizes on the connectedness of individuals.

The New York Times

The film capitalizes on this structure.

The New York Times

Discovery capitalizes on that sense of armchair adventure.

The New York Times - Arts

Oddly, a new book capitalizes on just that nostalgia.

The New Yorker

Each science festival capitalizes on regional strengths, expertise and creativity.

The New York Times - Science

The Wachtell petition intelligently capitalizes on Ms. Anderson's speech.

The New York Times

Archery truly capitalizes on the sensitivity of the MotionPlus.

The New York Times - Arts

But the game too rarely capitalizes on this potential.

The New York Times - Tech

This whole recovery industry really capitalizes on that.

The New York Times - Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "capitalizes on" to highlight how a subject strategically uses available resources or opportunities to its advantage. This implies a proactive and clever approach to achieving a goal.

Common error

While "capitalizes on" is a valid phrase, it can sound overly formal or business-like in casual contexts. Opt for simpler alternatives like "takes advantage of" or "uses" to maintain a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "capitalizes on" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the action of taking advantage of something. It typically describes a strategic or opportunistic approach. Ludwig AI highlights the phrase's appropriate use in contexts where leveraging resources or opportunities is central to the action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

33%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "capitalizes on" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that signifies taking strategic advantage of resources or opportunities. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is widely accepted and appropriate for use in formal writing. While versatile, it's particularly prominent in news, science, and academic contexts, emphasizing strategic action. When writing, consider the context and choose simpler alternatives in informal settings. Remembering these points will help ensure effective and precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Takes advantage of

More direct and can sometimes imply a negative connotation, suggesting exploitation.

Leverages

A more formal and business-oriented term for using something to maximum advantage.

Exploits

Implies using something, often a resource or situation, for one's own benefit, potentially unethically.

Harnesses

Suggests controlling and utilizing power or resources effectively.

Utilizes

A general term for making practical and effective use of something.

Maximizes

Focuses on achieving the greatest possible outcome or benefit from something.

Benefits from

Indicates receiving an advantage or positive outcome as a result of something.

Profits from

Specifically refers to gaining financial or material advantage.

Builds on

Suggests using something as a foundation for further development or success.

Draws on

Indicates using something as a source of support or inspiration.

FAQs

How can I use "capitalizes on" in a sentence?

You can use "capitalizes on" to describe how someone or something leverages an opportunity or resource for their benefit. For example, "The company "capitalizes on" the growing demand for eco-friendly products."

What are some alternatives to "capitalizes on"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "takes advantage of", "leverages", or "utilizes".

Is it correct to say "capitalizes of" instead of "capitalizes on"?

No, the correct preposition to use with "capitalizes" in this context is "on". "Capitalizes of" is grammatically incorrect.

What's the difference between "capitalizes on" and "exploits"?

"Capitalizes on" generally has a neutral or positive connotation, suggesting smart use of resources. "Exploits", on the other hand, often implies using something unfairly or selfishly, with a negative connotation.