expanding capacity

USAGE SUMMARY

"expanding capacity" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used in a sentence as a noun phrase to describe the act of increasing or enlarging a certain capability or potential. Example: The company is planning to invest in new technology to improve their expanding capacity for production.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

And large sums will be needed for expanding capacity, which will not be easy.

The New York Times

In a recession, the main thing preventing businesses from expanding capacity isn't the prohibitive cost but a lack of demand.

The New Yorker

The real constraint on expanding capacity in higher education is student number controls and limitations on public finance.

The Guardian

They're expanding capacity in order to meet demand: the problems they're having are the problems of success.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Few rich-world businesses can feel confident about expanding capacity when the outlook for consumer spending is so cloudy.

The Economist

The policy is not only expanding capacity but also demonstrating the scope for higher productivity and innovation.

The Economist

Several manufacturers are expanding capacity, but most of that will not come on line for several years.

The New York Times

It has invested heavily in expanding capacity, with plans to spend perhaps $100 billion on wells and infrastructure by 2015.

The Economist

Whenever the economy fell into a recession in the past, capital spending stopped because there was no point in expanding capacity.

The New York Times

Nevertheless, other companies continued to complain that the law punished them for making even routine repairs and discouraged them from expanding capacity to produce more electricity.

The New York Times

"The right solution is expanding capacity through 21st-century technologies, working with the airlines on more rational schedules, and better customer service," it said in a statement.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing long-term strategic goals, use "expanding capacity" to highlight planned enhancements of production capabilities, infrastructure or skill sets within an organization.

Common error

Avoid using "expanding capacity" when simpler terms like "increasing size" or "growing" would suffice. Reserve it for situations where the augmentation specifically relates to potential or capability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "expanding capacity" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or the subject of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage, as exemplified by numerous instances in reliable sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "expanding capacity" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Functioning as a noun phrase, it effectively communicates the concept of increasing potential or ability. Predominantly found in News & Media, Science and Formal & Business contexts, the phrase maintains a neutral to professional register. It is important to be mindful of using it in contexts where simpler terms would suffice. Overall, "expanding capacity" is a reliable and versatile term for describing strategic growth and development.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

building capability

Focuses on the development and strengthening of specific skills or abilities.

increasing output

Focuses specifically on the result of expanding capacity which is a higher level of production.

scaling up operations

Highlights the act of increasing the scale of business activities and workflows.

growing potential

Emphasizes the development of untapped capabilities and future possibilities.

enlarging scope

A more literal synonym focusing on making something bigger, more comprehensive.

boosting productivity

Stresses enhancing efficiency and output per unit of input or time.

widening scope

Implies broadening the range or extent of activities or functions.

extending reach

Highlights increasing the scope of influence or coverage.

enhancing proficiency

Specifically emphasizes the improvement of skills and expertise.

raising the bar

Highlights setting higher standards or expectations to achieve greater results.

FAQs

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

You can use "expanding capacity" to describe the process of increasing potential or output, as in "The company is investing in new equipment to "expand capacity" for production".

What are some alternatives to "expanding capacity"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "increasing output", "growing potential", or "scaling up operations".

Is it better to say "expanding capacity" or "increase capacity"?

Both "expanding capacity" and "increase capacity" are grammatically correct and widely used. The choice depends on stylistic preference, though "expanding capacity" might subtly emphasize a more gradual or ongoing process.

What's the difference between "expanding capacity" and "building capability"?

"Expanding capacity" typically refers to increasing the scale or output of existing capabilities. "Building capability", on the other hand, often implies developing entirely new skills or resources.