numerous capacities

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "numerous capacities" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe various roles, functions, or abilities that someone or something possesses. Example: "The organization operates in numerous capacities, including education, healthcare, and community development."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

A 50-year resident of Glen Ridge, NJ, he volunteered his time in numerous capacities.

The New York Times

He served as an officer of the congregation in numerous capacities for multiple terms.

The New York Times

"He has served in numerous capacities at the Justice Department for both Republican and Democrat administrations," Mr. Ashcroft said of Mr. Mueller.

The New York Times

Served the First Presbyterian Church, Greenwich, Ct. for 50 years in numerous capacities including Elder, Deacon and Chair of the Finance Committee.

The New York Times

During his tenure, Mr. Chanin served in numerous capacities on the regional and national boards of directors, including former Palm Beach Chapter president and chairman of the board.

The New York Times

Between 1912 and 1926, Fisher was active in the government in numerous capacities and as member of Parliament (1916 26) for the Liberal Party.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

The direct causes of underperformance are numerous: capacity gaps, stagnant processes, outdated organisational models, and so on.

The Guardian

Overall, our study sites in Nicaragua were developed over 27 years of close collaboration with the Ministry of Health, including numerous capacity building activities.

BMC Infectious Diseases

John was the President of the Kane Lodge Foundation for over twenty five years, served the Lodge in numerous other capacities and was a mentor to many of us.

The New York Times

Dr. Lang devoted his life to serving the people of New York City and numerous additional capacities as well as being the author of numerous articles in the field of personnel administration.

The New York Times

An avid supporter of his alma mater, Bob served Ohio State in numerous leadership capacities including board member of the University Foundation; member of the College of Arts and Sciences Advisory Board; and founding member of the Humanities Dean's Advisory Committee.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's involvement in an organization, use "numerous capacities" to highlight the breadth of their contributions. For instance, instead of saying 'He helped with many things', specify 'He served in "numerous capacities", including fundraising, event planning, and volunteer coordination.'

Common error

Avoid using "numerous capacities" when you actually mean "numerous capabilities". "Capacities" refers to the roles or positions someone holds, while "capabilities" refers to their inherent skills or abilities. For example, say 'She has the capability to lead multiple teams', not 'She has the capacity to lead multiple teams' if you're emphasizing her leadership ability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "numerous capacities" functions as a noun phrase modified by an adjective, typically used to describe the multiple roles, functions, or positions held by an individual or entity. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "numerous capacities" is a grammatically sound and versatile way to describe multiple roles or functions. As Ludwig AI points out, it's appropriate for conveying breadth and depth of involvement, particularly in formal settings. While synonyms like "several roles" or "various functions" exist, "numerous capacities" emphasizes a wide range of responsibilities and is commonly found in news media, scientific literature, and encyclopedias. When using this phrase, ensure you're highlighting the different roles someone holds rather than their underlying skills (capabilities). Keep the register neutral, but aim for simpler language in everyday conversations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

several capacities

Replaces "numerous" with a synonym implying more than two but not a large number.

various capacities

Replaces "numerous" with a synonym suggesting a diverse range of roles.

multiple roles

Substitutes both words with near synonyms maintaining the original meaning.

many roles

Replaces "numerous capacities" with simpler, more common language.

diverse abilities

Shifts the focus from roles to inherent skills, broadening the context slightly.

varied functions

Emphasizes the different tasks or operations performed.

wide range of skills

Focuses on the breadth of capabilities possessed.

host of responsibilities

Highlights the quantity of duties held.

multitude of functions

Uses more formal language to convey a large number of duties.

several avenues

Metaphorically extends the idea of roles into available courses of actions or options.

FAQs

How can I use "numerous capacities" in a sentence?

You can use "numerous capacities" to describe the different roles or functions someone fulfills within an organization or project. For example: "She served the organization in "numerous capacities", including treasurer, secretary, and event coordinator."

What are some alternatives to "numerous capacities"?

Alternatives include "several capacities", "various capacities", or "multiple roles" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "numerous roles" or "numerous capacities"?

Both "numerous roles" and "numerous capacities" are grammatically correct, but "numerous capacities" is more formal and often used when describing someone's involvement in an organization or institution. "Numerous roles" can be used in a broader range of contexts.

What's the difference between 'capacity' and 'capability'?

'Capacity' refers to the role or function someone or something performs or is suited for, while 'capability' refers to the ability or skill to do something. Therefore, "numerous capacities" refers to multiple roles, while using 'capabilities' would refer to the person's skills.