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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
substantive capacity
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "substantive capacity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in legal or formal contexts to refer to the ability of a person or entity to engage in a particular action or to hold certain rights or responsibilities. Example: "The court must determine whether the defendant had the substantive capacity to enter into the contract."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Formal & Business
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
1 human-written examples
The results indicate that increased substantive capacity expansion investment for clean energy (to reduce pollutants emissions) could lead to an increased system cost.
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
59 human-written examples
If by 'rationality' we mean a substantive psychological capacity involving particular desires or dispositions that enable us to respond to reasons, then we have a form of internalism that places substantive constraints on what can and cannot be a reason.
Science
The state continued to consolidate its institutional role as a mediator through legislation and also through a variety of top-down political mobilization policies to strengthen its substantive mediatory capacity.
The substantive economic capacity of these regional players means that health policy aims, like universal access to healthcare, are likely to come secondary to trade policy aims, like increasing foreign investment that can be gained from medical tourism.
Science
Substantive content, well delivered.
News & Media
However, the surgeon simply does not possess the substantive functional capacities of a surgeon.
Science
However, these advantages are likely to more substantive for onsite capacity compared to off-site capacity.
Science
In particular, a substantive reduction in capacity associated with anthropogenic barriers can reduce the effective population size and consequently genetic variation within the population.
Science
FAO following its mandate and comparative advantages, would provide substantive advice and capacity building on specific technical fields and normative matters.
En route, the non-state actors, including donors and NGOs, can play a substantive role, through capacity building of the provincial and district managers for supporting in-service delivery, research and management.
Science
But the detailed logical discussion starts right away with the concept of suppositio (supposition), i.e., from the capacity of substantive terms to stand for something in a propositional context.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "substantive capacity", ensure the context clearly defines what specific ability or power is being referred to, as it implies a significant and tangible capability.
Common error
Avoid using "substantive capacity" in casual or informal writing. It's more appropriate for formal reports, legal documents, or academic papers where precision and a higher register are expected.
Source & Trust
86%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "substantive capacity" functions primarily as a noun phrase that describes a significant and tangible ability or power. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is usable in formal contexts to refer to the ability of a person or entity to engage in a particular action or to hold certain rights or responsibilities.
Frequent in
Science
35%
News & Media
33%
Formal & Business
32%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "substantive capacity" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase, though relatively rare in occurrence. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is most suitable for formal contexts, referring to a significant and tangible ability or power. The phrase sees usage across a mix of scientific, news, and business contexts. When employing "substantive capacity", ensure the context clearly defines the ability being referenced to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "significant capability" or "real capability" may be considered based on the specific nuance you want to convey. Remember that while grammatically sound, using "substantive capacity" in informal writing could sound out of place.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
real capability
Focuses on the authenticity and genuineness of the capacity.
significant capability
Replaces "substantive" with "significant" and "capacity" with "capability", emphasizing the importance of the ability.
considerable potential
Focuses on the potential aspect, suggesting a capacity that can be developed or utilized.
meaningful competence
Highlights the competence aspect, adding a sense of purpose and importance.
substantial expertise
Emphasizes the knowledge and skill components of capacity.
genuine aptitude
Emphasizes the natural or inherent ability aspect, suggesting a talent or skill.
effective means
Highlights the effectiveness of the capacity to achieve a specific goal.
practical know-how
Focuses on the practical application and understanding aspect of capacity.
core strength
Highlights the fundamental nature of the capacity as a key advantage.
inherent power
Emphasizes the innate or intrinsic capacity for influence or action.
FAQs
How can I use "substantive capacity" in a sentence?
Use "substantive capacity" to describe a significant and tangible ability or power, such as: "The organization developed a "substantive capacity" for innovation."
What are some alternatives to "substantive capacity"?
Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "significant capability", "considerable potential", or "real capability".
In what kind of documents can I use the term "substantive capacity"?
The term "substantive capacity" can be used in formal reports, legal documents, or academic papers, where a precise and elevated tone is required.
What does "substantive capacity" imply about the ability being described?
It implies that the ability or power is significant, tangible, and has a real impact or effect.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
86%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested