has the capability to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'has the capability to' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when talking about a person or thing's abilities. For example: The new software has the capability to increase productivity by 25%.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Only the state has the capability to carry this out".

The Guardian

It has the capability to use material pre-damage.

Engineering Structures

This feature has the capability to cluster them.

Physica A: Statistical Mechanics and its Applications

The state increasingly has the capability to retain everything as the cost of computer memory collapses.

The Guardian - Opinion

"I think she still has the capability to win a Grand Slam," he said of Capriati.

The New York Times - Sports

Neither the United States nor Russia has the capability to bring down such objects, he added.

The Guardian

"Jerry Lewis has the capability to be very, very funny: physically, charismatically," Mr. Allen concedes.

The New York Times - Arts

Do you believe business has the capability to rise to the long term sustainability challenges?

The Guardian

North Korea certainly has the capability to carry out an attack of this nature.

The Guardian - Tech

Furthermore the language has the capability to support various optimizations that are specific to software composition.

Stanford University

The Vertebrate Paleontology Preparation Facility has the capability to undertake all but the largest preparation tasks.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a specific feature or function, use "has the capability to" to clearly state the ability to perform that function. For instance, "This software has the capability to automatically back up your files daily."

Common error

Avoid using "has the capability to" in simple sentences where "can" or "is able to" would suffice. Using simpler phrasing maintains clarity and avoids unnecessary verbosity. For example, instead of "The device has the capability to connect to Wi-Fi", use "The device can connect to Wi-Fi."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "has the capability to" functions as a verbal phrase expressing ability or potential. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide use across diverse contexts, illustrating its role in specifying what someone or something is equipped to do.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Academia

22%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "has the capability to" is a grammatically correct and widely used phrase for expressing ability or potential. Ludwig AI confirms its applicability across various contexts, though it's most prevalent in news, scientific, and academic writing. While versatile, it should be used thoughtfully to avoid verbosity in simpler sentences. Consider alternatives like "is able to" or "can" for clarity. Its strength lies in clearly stating the specific functions or abilities of a subject, making it a valuable phrase for precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is capable of

Highlights inherent potential or skill, similar in formality.

is able to

Focuses on the simple ability to do something, less formal.

can

A more concise and informal way to express ability.

possesses the capacity to

A more formal and emphatic way to state capability.

is equipped to

Suggests having the necessary tools or resources.

is in a position to

Emphasizes the favorable circumstances that enable action.

is designed to

Focuses on the intended purpose and functional ability.

is empowered to

Implies authorization or granted power to act.

retains the ability to

Indicates a preserved or maintained capability.

is apt to

Suggests a natural tendency or inclination.

FAQs

What does "has the capability to" mean?

The phrase "has the capability to" means that someone or something is able or equipped to do something. It indicates a potential or capacity for a particular action or function.

What are some alternatives to "has the capability to"?

Alternatives include "is able to", "is capable of", or simply "can" depending on the context. These options provide similar meanings with varying degrees of formality.

Is it better to say "has the capability to" or "is capable of"?

Both "has the capability to" and "is capable of" are correct, but "is capable of" is often more concise and direct. The choice depends on the desired level of formality and emphasis.

How can I use "has the capability to" in a sentence?

Use "has the capability to" to describe a specific ability or feature. For example, "The new model has the capability to process data much faster than the previous version."