the capability for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the capability for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing someone's or something's ability to perform a specific function or task. Example: "The new software has the capability for advanced data analysis, making it a valuable tool for researchers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The third is the capability for effective systems integration.

The New York Times

We've definitely got the capability for multi-medal success.

The Guardian - Sport

They have neither the power nor the capability for that.

The Economist

"The real problem is developing the capability for dealing with inevitable mistakes".

The New Yorker

Many lizards (more than 50 species) are known to have the capability for bipedal locomotion19.

Nature

The capability for automated content to help facilitate IT community adoption of University IT services.

Stanford University

He says a deal would "build the capability for people to be responsibly resettled in Cambodia".

The Economist

Once organisms developed the capability for photosynthesis, oxygen was produced in large quantities.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A committee spokesman, John Scofield, said the requirement was unworkable because the capability for doing the screening did not exist.

The New York Times

No other group currently operating in Kenya is known to have the capability for this kind of attack".

The Guardian

"We think we can build the capability for much less than it costs to buy the capacity," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the capability for", ensure that the noun following "for" accurately reflects the action or process the subject is capable of performing. For example, "The software has the capability for data analysis."

Common error

Avoid using "the capability for" when "capacity" is more appropriate. "Capability" refers to the ability to perform a task, while "capacity" refers to the maximum amount that something can contain or produce. For example, use "capacity" when discussing storage limits or production output.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the capability for" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject complement or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It indicates the potential or inherent capacity to perform a specific action or function. It is typically followed by a noun or gerund describing the action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

35%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the capability for" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase that indicates the potential or inherent ability to perform a specific action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for a variety of contexts, ranging from news and media to scientific and academic writing. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity in specifying the action or function. Consider alternatives such as "the ability to" or "the potential for" depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the ability to

Focuses more directly on the power or skill to do something.

the capacity to

Emphasizes the potential or maximum amount that something can contain or produce.

the potential to

Highlights the possibility of future development or achievement.

the aptitude for

Suggests a natural talent or inclination towards something.

the competence in

Highlights the demonstrated skill and knowledge in a particular area.

the expertise in

Emphasizes specialized knowledge or skill.

the wherewithal to

Focuses on having the necessary resources or means.

the power to

Highlights the authority or strength to do something.

the resources for

Implies the necessary materials or assets are available.

the means to

Indicates having the method or way to achieve something.

FAQs

How can I use "the capability for" in a sentence?

Use "the capability for" to indicate that something or someone has the potential or ability to perform a certain action. For example, "This device has "the capability for" wireless communication."

What are some alternatives to "the capability for"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "the ability to", "the capacity to", or "the potential for".

Is it better to say "capability of" or "capability for"?

While both can be used, "capability for" is typically followed by a noun or gerund, indicating a specific action or function. "Capability of" often precedes a verb. However, "capability for" is generally more common when describing the potential to do something.

What's the difference between "the capability for" and "the ability to"?

"The capability for" emphasizes potential or inherent capacity, while "the ability to" focuses on demonstrated or learned skill. Both are similar, but "capability" implies a more innate or designed-in capacity.