within our capabilities

USAGE SUMMARY

"within our capabilities" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to refer to something that is possible for a person or group to do. For example, "We will strive to do the best we can with the resources available to us, within our capabilities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

"It was not Barcelona or Brazil but we worked within our capabilities".

BBC

He added: "It's well within our capabilities to turn it around.

BBC

"Regardless of what we did first, we didn't restrict them enough - 300-plus on that wicket was above par but it was well within our capabilities and we needed someone to lead from the front at the top of the order.

BBC

That's still a whopping lot of CO2, but fitting that size is well within our capabilities.

Huffington Post

On 3 June 1971 he outlined his vision of a limited war: I want us to plan [the offensive] within our capabilities, nothing more.

Wikipedia

It seems like a weak thing to say no to someone we want to impress, but saying no is the strongest thing we can do for ourselves because we take a stand for what we want while delivering the best of what we have within our capabilities.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

"If we can get the win on Sunday, it's still within our capability".

BBC

"That said, we are within our capability and capacity to be able to execute this mission.

Huffington Post

And we will do that within our financial capabilities".

BBC

Draftfcb's Institute of Decision Making, the research-driven unit within our global capabilities group that unearths insights on consumer behavior and how humans make decisions for our network and clients, has discovered that knowing the information is available allows consumers to approach decision-making with greater confidence.

Huffington Post

Capacity was the most significant challenge to comprehensive FCTC implementation: I would say that we have insufficient capacity to carry out this Tobacco [Products Control] Act because we have too much on the plate and this is an added [responsibility]… but we are trying our best to accommodate it within our restricted capabilities, in terms of staffing as well as funding.

BMJ Open

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "within our capabilities", ensure that the context clearly defines whose capabilities are being referred to. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "within our capabilities" to justify inaction or a lack of ambition. Frame it as a realistic assessment, not an excuse for not striving for more.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "within our capabilities" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb or noun, indicating the scope or boundary of an action or potential. Ludwig AI highlights how this phrase is used to set realistic expectations based on available resources and skills.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

43%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "within our capabilities" serves as a practical way to define the limits of what can be achieved. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct and useful for setting realistic goals by acknowledging resource and skill limitations. While related phrases like "to the best of our abilities" or "as far as we are able" emphasize effort, this phrase is more focused on inherent limitations. It's most commonly found in news, media, and scientific contexts, making it suitable for neutral to professional communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as far as we are able

Directly addresses the extent of one's ability to act or perform.

given our limitations

Directly acknowledges the existence and impact of restrictions.

up to our capacity

Directly references the limits of capacity.

to the best of our abilities

Emphasizes the effort made, rather than the inherent limit of ability.

to the extent possible for us

Emphasizes the personal aspect of the possibility.

in line with our competencies

Highlights how competencies restrict actions.

subject to our expertise

Highlights expertise as a boundary of action.

according to our skillset

Focuses specifically on the skills possessed as a limiting factor.

considering our resources

Highlights available resources as determining factors.

to our maximum potential

Highlights aspirational achievement, rather than present limitations.

FAQs

How can I use "within our capabilities" in a sentence?

You can use "within our capabilities" to describe actions or goals that are achievable with the resources and skills available. For example, "We will complete the project within our capabilities and deliver high-quality results."

What phrases are similar to "within our capabilities"?

Similar phrases include "to the best of our abilities", "to our maximum potential", or "as far as we are able".

Is it better to say "within our capacity" or "within our capabilities"?

While both are similar, "within our capacity" refers more to the amount or volume that can be handled, while "within our capabilities" refers to the skills and expertise available. "Within our capacity" is better to use in situations that have thresholds.

How do limitations relate to "within our capabilities"?

Limitations define the boundaries of what is "within our capabilities". Recognizing these limitations helps in setting realistic goals and expectations.