to capacity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to capacity" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is filled to its maximum limit or extent. Example: "The stadium was filled to capacity for the championship game."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Nursing schools are filled to capacity.

The New York Times

Henman Hill was still filled to capacity.

The New York Times

The first relates to capacity.

The Guardian

Shelters are filled to capacity.

The New York Times

Inside, the bar was packed to capacity.

The New York Times - Style

The courtroom was filled to capacity.

The New York Times - Sports

It was full to capacity every night.

The New York Times

Our parking lots were filled to capacity.

The New York Times

"The prisons are full to capacity.

The Guardian

"The loft is full to capacity.

The New Yorker

The restaurant had filled to capacity.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to capacity", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being filled or utilized to its maximum extent. For example, "The stadium was filled "to capacity" for the concert".

Common error

Avoid using "to capacity" when referring to abstract qualities that don't have a measurable limit. For example, avoid saying "He loved "to capacity"", instead use "He loved deeply" or "He loved immensely".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to capacity" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs to describe the extent to which something is filled or utilized. As Ludwig AI confirms, it indicates reaching a maximum limit. Examples include "filled to capacity" or "operating to capacity".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to capacity" functions as an adverbial phrase indicating that something is filled or utilized to its maximum extent. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It's most frequently found in news and media contexts but is applicable across various domains, maintaining a neutral register. While "at capacity" can be used similarly, "to capacity" often describes the action of filling something. Remember to use it when referring to measurable limits and not abstract qualities, and consider alternatives like "fully booked" or "at maximum volume" depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fully booked

Specifically refers to all slots or reservations being taken.

filled to the brim

Focuses on the image of something being completely full, like a container.

at saturation point

Implies that no more can be added or accommodated.

at full stretch

This alternative emphasizes the exertion or maximum use of resources.

maxed out

A more informal way to express reaching the limit or maximum.

completely utilized

Highlights the full and effective use of available resources.

at maximum volume

Highlights the highest possible output or holding ability.

stretched to the limit

Suggests that resources are being used as much as possible, potentially causing strain.

at its peak

Indicates the highest point of activity or performance.

operating at full potential

Focuses on achieving the highest level of performance or capability.

FAQs

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

The phrase "to capacity" is generally used to indicate that something is filled or operating at its maximum limit. For example: "The venue was filled "to capacity"" or "The server was running "to capacity"".

What are some alternatives to using "to capacity"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "fully booked", "completely full", or "at maximum volume" instead of "to capacity".

Is it correct to say "at capacity" instead of "to capacity"?

Both "at capacity" and "to capacity" are acceptable, but "at capacity" usually describes the state of something being full, while "to capacity" describes the act of filling something. For example, "The stadium is at capacity" versus "The stadium filled "to capacity"".

What does "operating close to capacity" mean?

"Operating close "to capacity"" suggests that something is functioning near its maximum potential or limit, but not quite reaching it. It implies high utilization but with some room for additional load or activity.