innate capacity

USAGE SUMMARY

"innate capacity" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone's natural or inherent ability or capacity for something, or to describe a trait that a person or thing is born with. For example: "The athlete had an innate capacity for running that could not be taught."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Anyone who comes peacefully is welcomed; the Yolngu have little innate capacity for social exclusion.

The Guardian

The boys' descent into savagery symbolises mankind's innate capacity for evil.

The Guardian

Perhaps the process of learning to become a doctor draws out an innate capacity for storytelling in some individuals.

The Guardian - Books

Taken together, these two studies don't suggest that we all have an innate capacity for tyranny or victimhood.

The New Yorker

LOS ANGELES — Human beings are born with an innate capacity to learn languages.

The New York Times - Science

An innate capacity for language, for example, makes it possible to learn a local language.

Encyclopedia Britannica

If this is the case, it's so important to nurture our innate capacity for care and attunement.

University of California, Berkeley

Myeloid dendritic cells (DCs) have the innate capacity to sense pathogens and orchestrate immune responses.

Cell Host & Microbe

But some boarding experts note that people have an innate capacity to "self-organize" and keep out of each other's way.

The New York Times

It serves as a reminder that no matter how compelling the anecdote, all claims must be scientifically evaluated to rule out our innate capacity to delude even ourselves.

The Guardian

But, in writing a critical biography of him, I was more struck by his iron loyalty, meticulous precision and innate capacity for friendship.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "innate capacity", ensure that the context clearly indicates the specific area or skill to which the capacity applies. For example, specify "innate capacity for language learning" instead of just "innate capacity".

Common error

Avoid attributing all successes or failures solely to "innate capacity". While natural talent plays a role, effort, learning, and environment are also critical factors.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "innate capacity" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a quality or ability that is inherent or natural. As Ludwig AI explains, it refers to a natural or inherent ability or capacity for something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

41%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "innate capacity" is a well-established and frequently used term, especially within scientific, academic, and news contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and suitability for describing natural or inherent abilities. When employing this phrase, consider related terms like "inborn ability" or "natural talent" to diversify your writing and to provide nuance. Remember that while "innate capacity" highlights a person's natural gifts, it is crucial to acknowledge the role of environment, effort and learnings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

inborn ability

Focuses specifically on abilities present from birth, similar to "innate capacity" but emphasizing skill.

natural talent

Emphasizes a naturally occurring aptitude or skill, highlighting giftedness.

inherent potential

Highlights the potential that is naturally present within something, slightly more focused on future possibilities.

intrinsic capability

Stresses the inherent capability or power within something, often used in technical contexts.

natural aptitude

Similar to natural talent but may refer to a broader range of skills and abilities.

inbuilt capacity

Describes capacity that is built-in or inherent.

native ability

Focuses on an ability that is native or natural to a person or thing.

untaught skill

Emphasizes that the skill is not learned but naturally present.

god-given talent

Attributes the talent to a divine source.

pre-wired ability

Conveys the idea that an ability is present from birth, metaphorically suggesting it is pre-programmed.

FAQs

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

You can use "innate capacity" to describe a natural ability or potential that someone is born with. For instance, "She has an innate capacity for music" or "The human brain has an innate capacity for language acquisition".

What are some alternatives to "innate capacity"?

Alternatives include "inborn ability", "natural talent", or "inherent potential". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "innate capacity of" or "innate capacity for"?

Both are grammatically acceptable, but "innate capacity for" is more common when referring to a skill or ability. "Innate capacity of" might be used in more technical or formal contexts, but usage depends on nuance and context.

How does "innate capacity" differ from "learned skill"?

"Innate capacity" refers to a skill or ability that is present from birth or is naturally occurring, while a "learned skill" is acquired through training, practice, or experience. Innate abilities may be further developed, but are fundamentally present from the outset.