natural capacity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "natural capacity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an inherent ability or potential that someone possesses, often in relation to skills or talents. Example: "Her natural capacity for learning languages made her an excellent candidate for the translation program."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Curiosity is an inherent natural capacity that builds on itself and is it in itself is naturally rewarding.

Huffington Post

His body throbbed, as if he had just exercised far beyond his natural capacity.

The New Yorker

Introducing an outlandish aspect to the scene triggers humans' natural capacity to remember unusual or exciting events.

The Guardian

"In many ways, our natural capacity to learn is astonishing: when interested and engaged, anyone can learn remarkably well," says Ed Cooke, creator of language learning app Memrise.

The Guardian

"It is critically important now to bolster the resilience of the reef, and to maximise its natural capacity to recover," said Pandolfi.

The Guardian

The gulf has an immense natural capacity to break down oil, which leaks into it at a steady rate from thousands of natural seeps.

The New York Times

Beyond this, the only just requirement is to demand that each pursue knowledge as far as his natural capacity and makeup permit.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The conservative view of human nature is not as distinctive as it might at first appear – one does not have to be on the right to think that humans have a natural capacity for selfishness.

The Guardian - Opinion

With a natural capacity to make others feel enriched simply by spending time with her, she kept meeting new people to the very end, even as her illness returned, and so also leaves a great many friends.

The Guardian

Intelligence in regard to the big picture of our world is no neutral thing, no simple natural capacity of reasoning; it needs grace to escape from the distortions of pride and acquisitiveness.

The Guardian - Opinion

With its low-lying Gulf coast location, soft soil and fast-growing urban sprawl, reducing the natural capacity of the land to absorb rainwater, Houston is no stranger to flooding.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing potential for growth or development, use "natural capacity" to highlight the inherent, undeveloped abilities.

Common error

Avoid using "natural capacity" when referring to skills that are primarily learned or acquired through extensive training, as it implies an inherent rather than a developed ability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "natural capacity" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes an inherent or inborn ability, aptitude, or potential. Examples from Ludwig showcase its use in various contexts, such as describing human traits or the resilience of ecosystems.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

37%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "natural capacity" refers to an inherent or innate ability, aptitude, or potential. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. It appears frequently in various contexts, particularly in news media, science, and academia. When writing, use "natural capacity" to highlight undeveloped or inherent abilities and avoid using it for skills primarily acquired through training. As highlighted by the examples, it's a versatile phrase applicable to people, ecosystems, and even processes. Understanding its proper usage can add precision to your writing and effectively convey the concept of innate potential.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

innate ability

Replaces "capacity" with a more general term for ability, emphasizing the inherent nature.

inherent potential

Focuses on the potential aspect of the capacity, highlighting what can be developed from it.

native talent

Specifically refers to a natural skill or aptitude in a particular area.

inborn capability

Emphasizes the genetic or biological origin of the capacity.

natural aptitude

Highlights a natural inclination or suitability for something.

intrinsic skill

Focuses on the skill being an essential or inherent part of someone.

organic talent

This alternative emphasizes the unforced and natural development of the talent.

basic faculty

This alternative conveys the basic ability that serves as the foundation for further development.

natural endowment

This alternative is more formal, suggesting a gift or quality bestowed naturally.

raw talent

Focuses on the undeveloped, unrefined aspect of the talent.

FAQs

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

You can use "natural capacity" to describe someone's inherent ability or potential. For example, "Her "natural capacity" for music was evident from a young age."

What are some synonyms for "natural capacity"?

Alternatives include "innate ability", "inherent potential", or "native talent". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "natural capacity" in formal writing?

Yes, "natural capacity" is suitable for formal writing, especially in academic or professional contexts where inherent abilities are being discussed.

What's the difference between "natural capacity" and "acquired skill"?

"Natural capacity" refers to an inborn talent or potential, while "acquired skill" refers to an ability developed through learning and practice. One is inherent, and the other is learned.