certain capability

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "certain capability" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific skill or ability that is not explicitly defined but is understood in context. Example: "The software demonstrates a certain capability that enhances user experience."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

"He realised that I had a certain capability and that could be turned into an acceptable academic direction".

The Guardian - Arts

And there was also the implicit suggestion that a woman wouldn't want to marry a man unless he could display a certain capability as a lover.

The New York Times

However, only few methods exhibit a certain capability of resisting time stretching/scaling and pitch shifting, as summarized below.

EURASIP Journal on Audio, Speech, and Music Processing

The experimental results showed that the wire mesh and the foam ceramic materials have a certain capability of the fire retardant and the reduction pressure.

Procedia Engineering

The HDPE, HPmND-1%, HPgND-1%, and HPgND-2%, respectively, exhibit ASEA of 414, 320, 343, and 369 m2/kg, indicating that ND has certain capability of smoke suppression.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Digitonin, CHAPS, DDM and some detergent mixtures, which are of rather general use for GPCR solubilization, show certain capability of isolation of hCRs.

Plosone

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Of course, certain capabilities fall off as you approach 50.

The New York Times

I'm also very realistic about certain capabilities; their aviation capability is going to be a long time in coming.

The New York Times

Even if Al Qaeda's core network is routed, Mr. Rhodes said, "you'll want to preserve certain capabilities we've developed".

The New York Times

"We have certain capabilities at Arrow, and we take those people who have those capabilities and transplant them to Asia," he said.

The New York Times

The advisers can also provide certain capabilities the Afghans do not have, such as Nato air cover and medical evacuation helicopters.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "certain capability", ensure the context makes it clear what specific ability you are referring to, even if it's not explicitly named.

Common error

Avoid using "certain capability" when a more specific and descriptive term would provide greater clarity to the reader. Overuse can lead to ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "certain capability" functions as a noun phrase where "certain" modifies the noun "capability". It serves to denote a specific, though not necessarily explicitly defined, ability or capacity. The Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

62%

News & Media

38%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "certain capability" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that functions as a noun phrase to denote a specific ability or capacity that may not be explicitly defined. According to Ludwig, it’s suitable for various contexts, particularly in scientific and news-related discussions. While not overly frequent, its versatility allows for subtle communication, inviting inference based on context. For alternatives, consider phrases like "specific aptitude" or "particular ability" for enhanced clarity. Use sparingly to avoid vagueness, and ensure that the intended meaning is discernible from the surrounding text.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Specific aptitude

Replaces 'capability' with 'aptitude', implying a natural talent or inclination.

Particular ability

Substitutes 'certain' with 'particular' and 'capability' with 'ability' emphasizing a specific skill.

Distinct potential

Emphasizes unrealized capacity or possibility.

Definite skill

Highlights expertise in a specific area.

Notable competence

Indicates a recognized level of proficiency.

Recognizable talent

Highlights a natural or acquired aptitude that stands out.

Established proficiency

Emphasizes a proven track record of skill.

Demonstrated capacity

Suggests evidence of the ability to perform.

Inherent knack

Implies a natural, innate talent.

Underlying capacity

Emphasizes a fundamental or foundational skill.

FAQs

How can I use "certain capability" in a sentence?

Use "certain capability" when referring to a particular skill or ability without needing to specify it precisely. For instance, "The new software has a "certain capability" that enhances user experience."

What are some alternatives to saying "certain capability"?

Alternatives include "specific aptitude", "particular ability", or "distinct potential", depending on the context.

Is it better to be specific instead of using "certain capability"?

While "certain capability" is grammatically correct, being more specific can often improve clarity. Consider whether naming the specific skill or ability would make your writing more effective. However, avoid naming if it may give sensitive details.

What does "certain capability" imply about the ability being discussed?

The phrase "certain capability" implies that the ability is noteworthy or significant in some way, even if its exact nature is not immediately clear. Often it has already been discussed or is about to be.