exceptional capacity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exceptional capacity" is correct and can be used in written English.
It means a high level of ability or talent, something that is above average or outstanding. Example: John was hired for the job due to his exceptional capacity for problem-solving and critical thinking.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

Demonstrated exceptional capacity for productive scholarship.

Harvard University

He has a magnetic personality and an exceptional capacity to communicate.

The New Yorker

Their exceptional capacity for CO2-fixation illustrates their indispensable significance to sustain earth's ecosystems.

Algal Research

She was a woman with an exceptional capacity to present her own suffering through an amazing and rather unique style.

The New York Times - Magazine

And Joe Biden, who actually ran a disciplined campaign, given his truly exceptional capacity to say weird things.

The New York Times

"We have an exceptional capacity to track whether the timing and morphology of an emotion is correct".

The New York Times - Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

These are not exceptional capacities or shifts.

HuffPost

38 Laterality is thus an additional feature of the prefronto-cerebellar system in humans, and may underlie humans' exceptional capacities in tool use and language.

Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences

The recreational users' success in pursing their goals despite the continuous use of cocaine might reflect exceptional capacities for self-regulation, which may be subserved, in part, by the orbitofrontal cortex (54,73).

Biological Psychiatry

Results indicate that the Chuan-Dou type timber frame has exceptional deformation capacity, good energy dissipation capacity and poor ultimate load carrying capacity and stiffness.

Engineering Structures

Electrochemical tests suggest that the as-made MnCoOx anode has the exceptional reversible capacity and rate capability at the high current rate of 1500 mA g−1.

Electrochimica Acta

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's strengths, use "exceptional capacity" to highlight their outstanding abilities in a specific area. This phrase works particularly well in professional and academic contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "exceptional capacity" in casual conversation. It sounds overly formal and can be replaced with simpler terms like "great ability" or "real talent" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exceptional capacity" functions as a descriptor, modifying a noun to indicate a quality or ability that is significantly above the norm. As Ludwig examples show, it usually characterizes people's talents, or an object's capabilities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

47%

News & Media

29%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "exceptional capacity" is a formal phrase used to describe a level of ability that is significantly above average. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and appropriate for use in written English, particularly in scientific, academic, and professional contexts. While alternatives like "remarkable ability" or "outstanding capability" exist, "exceptional capacity" carries a unique emphasis on the superior nature of the skill or talent being described. Remember to reserve this phrase for formal settings to maintain an appropriate tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

remarkable ability

Emphasizes the noteworthiness of the skill.

outstanding capability

Highlights the superior level of competence.

extraordinary talent

Focuses on innate aptitude and skill.

uncommon potential

Stresses the unrealized possibilities.

notable proficiency

Underscores expertise and skill.

considerable aptitude

Highlights a natural inclination or talent.

impressive competence

Focuses on the high level of effectiveness.

significant skill

Highlights the importance and impact of the skill.

superior faculty

Emphasizes a high-ranking or top-tier ability.

special gift

Highlights an inborn talent or ability.

FAQs

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

You can use "exceptional capacity" to describe someone's outstanding ability in a particular area. For instance, "She demonstrated an "exceptional capacity" for leadership" or "The team showed an "exceptional capacity" for problem-solving".

What are some alternatives to "exceptional capacity"?

Alternatives include "remarkable ability", "outstanding capability", or "extraordinary talent". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "exceptional capacity" a formal phrase?

Yes, "exceptional capacity" is generally considered a formal phrase, suitable for academic, professional, and scientific contexts. Using it in informal settings might sound unnatural.

What's the difference between "exceptional capacity" and "great ability"?

"Exceptional capacity" implies a level of ability that is significantly above average, whereas "great ability" simply indicates a high degree of skill. "Exceptional capacity" suggests a talent that stands out.