virtually double the capacity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "virtually double the capacity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing an increase in capacity that is close to, but not exactly, double the original amount. Example: "The new system is designed to virtually double the capacity of our data storage, allowing for more efficient operations."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

But officials are now moving to nearly double the capacity of a similar facility in Florida.

The New York Times

On completion the development, called Andermatt Swiss Alps (ASA), will virtually double the size of the town.

Independent

That would be almost double the capacity of the world's busiest airport in 2017, Atlanta.

BBC

Last year, Ms. Tanzi sketched out plans to double the capacity of Parmatour's hotels.

The New York Times

We're going to double the capacity this year.

Forbes

Moreover, enhanced neuronal activity virtually doubled the percentage of BDNF-immunoreactive terminals contacting CA3 pyramidal cells.

Duke University

Sidewalk seating doubles the capacity.

The New York Times - Travel

Doubling the capacity of a plant does not necessarily double the cost.

Harvard Business Review

That doubles the capacity of its top-end cards.

TechCrunch

They have doubled the capacity from the HGX-1 released last year.

TechCrunch

New international and domestic airline terminals have doubled the capacity of LAX's passenger-handling facilities.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "virtually double the capacity" when you want to convey that something is almost, but not necessarily exactly, twice its original size or amount. It's suitable when precision is not critical.

Common error

Avoid using "virtually double the capacity" if the increase is precisely twofold. In such cases, opt for "double the capacity" to ensure accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "virtually double the capacity" functions as a descriptive phrase, typically used to modify a noun. It indicates an increase in something's capacity that is close to, but not exactly, twice the original amount. Ludwig AI confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "virtually double the capacity" is a grammatically sound and readily understandable way to describe a significant increase in capacity. Although exact examples are missing according to Ludwig AI, it can be considered correct. It’s best used when you want to convey that an amount is approximately twice as much, without necessarily indicating a precise doubling. Alternative phrasing like "almost double the capacity" or "nearly double the capacity" can be used for similar effect. Be mindful not to use it when precision is needed; in those instances, "double the capacity" is more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

almost double the capacity

Replaces "virtually" with "almost", indicating a near doubling rather than an exact one. It's very similar in meaning.

nearly double the capacity

Substitutes "virtually" with "nearly", suggesting a closeness to doubling the capacity, with minor difference in meaning.

approximately double the capacity

Uses "approximately" instead of "virtually", making the estimation explicit.

essentially double the capacity

Replaces "virtually" with "essentially", focusing on the practical outcome of the increased capacity.

effectively double the capacity

Indicates that the capacity is doubled due to some action or change.

more than double the capacity

Suggests the increase surpasses twofold, implying a higher increase than just about double.

increase the capacity twofold

Uses a different phrasing to express the same idea, focusing on the act of increasing.

double the capacity in effect

Indicates that the doubling of capacity is the result or consequence of something else.

practically double the capacity

Implies the increase of capacity is very close to doubling, but may not be completely exact.

close to doubling the capacity

Expresses a similar idea using a more descriptive phrase.

FAQs

How can I use "virtually double the capacity" in a sentence?

You can use "virtually double the capacity" to describe an increase that is very close to, but not necessarily exactly, twice the original amount. For example, "The upgrade will "nearly double the capacity" of the server."

What's a good alternative to "virtually double the capacity"?

Alternatives include "almost double the capacity", "nearly double the capacity", or "approximately double the capacity". Choose the phrase that best fits the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "virtually double" if the amount is slightly less or more than double?

Yes, "virtually double" implies an amount that is very close to double. If the amount is significantly more or less, it's best to use a more precise term or a different phrase like "more than double the capacity".

What is the difference between "virtually double the capacity" and "actually double the capacity"?

"Virtually double the capacity" means the capacity is increased to an amount that is close to double but not exact. "Actually double the capacity" means the capacity is precisely doubled.