demonstrate a capacity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "demonstrate a capacity" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing someone's ability or potential to perform a specific task or function. Example: "The candidate was able to demonstrate a capacity for leadership during the group project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Or, to put it differently, the most effective leaders demonstrate a capacity for vuja dé.

Harvard Business Review

The board must demonstrate a capacity and track record of making sound decisions, unimpeded by the personal views of management.

Harvard University

"We do think it's important for the long-term welfare of the people of Africa that their governments demonstrate a capacity to comply with international law," he said.

The Guardian

And the descriptions of his relationship with his grandmother as well as with his cat demonstrate a capacity for love and regret.

The New York Times

Also, candidates are expected to demonstrate a capacity to contribute to collective defense, but there is no assessment to determine whether aspiring NATO members have made steps to adjust their intelligence, diplomacy, finance and militaries to contribute to counterterrorism.

The New York Times

If confirmed as a Russian action, the use of a chemical weapon on British soil would be an act of extreme hostility, suggesting Mr Putin is seeking to demonstrate a capacity to project aggressive power unimpeded around the globe.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

They have demonstrated a capacity to run something and to make decisions".

The New York Times

Applicants are expected to have demonstrated a capacity for research and criticism in their earlier education.

Columbia University

It appears that the rebels have again demonstrated a capacity to strike deep into the heart of the Russian state.

The Guardian

In addition, the parasite has demonstrated a capacity to suppress immune responses such as lymphocyte proliferation and function10,11.

Nature

De Waal also engages readers with stories of individual primates who have demonstrated a capacity for kindness, generosity, and gratitude.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "demonstrate a capacity" to highlight someone's proven ability to handle specific tasks or responsibilities, especially when referring to future potential.

Common error

Avoid using "demonstrate a capacity" excessively in overly formal contexts where simpler alternatives like "show ability" or "prove skill" might be more appropriate and direct.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "demonstrate a capacity" functions as a verb phrase that typically introduces a description of someone or something exhibiting a particular skill, ability, or potential. This aligns with Ludwig's assessment that the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Academia

32%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "demonstrate a capacity" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression across various domains, including news, academia, and science. As confirmed by Ludwig, it serves to highlight the presence of a skill, ability, or potential. While versatile, it's important to consider context and avoid overuse in overly formal situations where simpler alternatives might be more appropriate. Considering semantic relationships is helpful to fine-tune your choice in wording, selecting an alternative that is most fitting. Common alternatives include "show a capability" or "possess the ability".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

show a capability

Replaces "demonstrate" with "show" and "capacity" with "capability", implying a proven ability.

exhibit an aptitude

Substitutes "demonstrate" with "exhibit" and "capacity" with "aptitude", focusing on a natural talent.

display a talent

Uses "display" instead of "demonstrate" and "talent" instead of "capacity", highlighting a specific skill.

possess the ability

Replaces "demonstrate a capacity" with "possess the ability", emphasizing inherent capability.

prove competence

Conveys demonstrating a general capacity through proven competence.

establish proficiency

Focuses on establishing a demonstrated level of skill or expertise.

evidence potential

Highlights potential rather than demonstrated ability, indicating future capacity.

reveal an inclination

Suggests a tendency or leaning, implying a natural capacity.

illustrate a knack

Replaces "demonstrate" with "illustrate" and "capacity" with "knack", suggesting a natural aptitude.

project an image

Focuses on presenting a perception of capacity, not necessarily demonstrating it directly.

FAQs

How can I use "demonstrate a capacity" in a sentence?

You can use "demonstrate a capacity" to describe someone's ability or potential to perform a task. For example: "The candidate was able to demonstrate a capacity for leadership during the group project."

What are some alternatives to "demonstrate a capacity"?

Alternatives include "show a capability", "exhibit an aptitude", or "possess the ability". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "demonstrate a capacity" or "show an ability"?

Both phrases are correct, but "demonstrate a capacity" often implies a more observable or proven ability, whereas "show an ability" might suggest a more general or inherent capability.

What's the difference between "demonstrate a capacity" and "prove competence"?

"Demonstrate a capacity" focuses on showing potential or existing ability, whereas "prove competence" emphasizes establishing a confirmed level of skill or expertise through specific actions or results.