half of capacity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "half of capacity" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation in which something isn't quite as full as it could be. For example, "The theatre was only half of capacity, so there were lots of empty seats."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

"At any given moment, more than half of capacity is idle," Mr. Myllyvirta said.

The New York Times

The Rays drew 17,891, just under half of capacity, Tuesday night.

The New York Times - Sports

We estimated current population size to be approximately half of capacity.

Biological Conservation

But the factory has been operating at less than half of capacity for much of the last year.

The New York Times

The builders now say the pipeline will, for the foreseeable future, transport only 220,000 barrels a day, half of capacity.

The New York Times

As a result, pumps in some hard-hit areas were operating at half of capacity, according to Joseph Becker, the water board's superintendent.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

To estimate value added and employment generated by the operation of the RE facilities, installed capacity in 2011 is relevant (installed capacity at the end of 2010 plus half of the capacity newly installed in 2011).

Energy, Sustainability and Society

That is roughly half of its capacity.

The Economist

About half of the capacity is in the Middle East.

The Economist

Overall, about half of satellite capacity in Asia is used for carrying voice and data.

The Economist

By next year, solar will be the fastest-growing new source of energy in the country, approaching half of new capacity.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing utilization rates, use "half of capacity" to clearly convey that something is operating or filled to 50% of its maximum potential. This is particularly useful in technical or analytical contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "half of capacity" when you actually mean "half of the capability". Capacity refers to the amount something can contain, while capability refers to the ability to do something. For instance, a factory running at "half of its capacity" is different from it performing at "half of its capability".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "half of capacity" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses to describe the extent to which something is filled or operational. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "half of capacity" is a grammatically sound and relatively common expression used to indicate that something is filled or operating at 50% of its maximum potential. As shown by Ludwig, this phrase is frequently used in contexts ranging from news reporting and scientific discussions to more formal business communications. While generally neutral in tone, its purpose is often to quantify utilization rates, highlight inefficiencies, or discuss potential improvements. Related phrases such as "50 percent of capacity" or "underutilized" can offer similar meanings. Remember to distinguish between capacity and capability to ensure accurate communication. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and versatile usage across various fields.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

50 percent of capacity

Replaces the phrase with a numerical equivalent, specifying the percentage.

At fifty percent capacity

This variation uses 'at' to indicate the state of being at half capacity.

Half-full

Uses a hyphenated adjective to describe something that is at half its capacity.

Around half of capacity

Adds a degree of approximation to the quantity.

Not at full potential

Emphasizes the unrealized potential due to the capacity not being fully utilized.

Operating at half strength

Specifically refers to the operational level, indicating reduced functionality.

Partially full

Simplifies the phrase to a more general term describing incomplete fullness.

Substantially below capacity

Emphasizes a significant underutilization compared to the maximum capacity.

Underutilized

Focuses on the aspect of not being used to its full potential.

Moderately filled

Suggests a partial level of fullness, less precise than "half".

FAQs

How can I rephrase "half of capacity"?

You can use alternatives like "50 percent of capacity", "partially full", or "underutilized" depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "half of capacity"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. "Half of capacity" functions as a prepositional phrase, describing a state of being or a degree of fullness or operation.

In what contexts is the phrase "half of capacity" commonly used?

The phrase is frequently used in contexts involving manufacturing, energy production, sports, and resource management to describe utilization levels. For instance, factories running at reduced output or stadiums not filled to capacity.

What's the difference between "half-full" and "half of capacity"?

"Half-full" typically refers to a container or space that is 50% filled, often used metaphorically. "Half of capacity" is more technical and can refer to operational levels, production rates, or any system functioning at 50% of its maximum potential.