capability
gb/kˌeɪpəbˈɪləti/ us/kˌeɪpəbˈɪləti/
B1
English
~ 5000
Senses
0 senses
Noun
B1
entity
1
ability to perform a task
The ability or skill to do something.
Usage pattern:
[someone]'s capability to [do something]
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes confuse 'capability' with 'capacity'. 'Capability' is about ability or skill; 'capacity' is about volume or maximum amount something can hold or handle.
Synonyms
ability (Most common synonym; general term for being able to do something.)
|
competence (Implies adequate skill or qualification for a particular job or task.)
Antonyms
inability (Direct opposite; the state of not being able to do something.)
Collocations
technical capability
|military capability
|capability to handle
|full capability
|capability assessment
Themes
abilities
|work
|technology
|personal_development
|core_vocabulary
|education
Examples
- The new software has the capability to process data much faster.
- Her capability as a leader impressed the entire team.
- We need to improve our capability to respond to emergencies.
- The robot's capability for delicate work is remarkable.
Learner examples
- He has the capability to fix cars.
- This phone has the capability to take good photos.
- She showed her capability in cooking.
- The team has the capability to win.
Noun
technical
B2
entity
2
function or feature of a system
A special thing that a machine, system, or program can do.
Usage pattern:
[something] has the capability to [do something]
Synonyms
functionality (Often used in technology contexts; refers to what a system can do.)
|
feature (A particular aspect of a product's design or operation.)
Antonyms
limitation (A restriction on what something can do.)
Collocations
capability upgrade
|system capability
|capability testing
|capability development
Themes
technology
|engineering
|computing
|science
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- The camera's night vision capability makes it ideal for security use.
- We are adding new capabilities to the app next month.
- The satellite has multiple communication capabilities.
Learner examples
- The phone has a video call capability.
- This car has a self-driving capability.
- The printer has a color printing capability.
Grammar
Dictionary form
capability
IPA
GB/kˌeɪpəbˈɪləti/
US/kˌeɪpəbˈɪləti/
Syllables & stress
cap - ab - il - ity (4 syllables)
Stress on 3rd syllable (il)
Word forms
Noun
- Base: capability
- Plural: capabilities
Word family
Expressions
beyond one's capabilities
1/bɪjˈɔnd wˈʌnz kˌeɪpəbˈɪlətiz/
fixed phrase
tasks someone cannot manage
Something that you cannot do because it is too difficult for you.
Examples
- Climbing that mountain alone is beyond my capabilities.
- This project may be beyond their capabilities without extra help.
within one's capabilities
1/wɪðˈɪn wˈʌnz kˌeɪpəbˈɪlətiz/
fixed phrase
tasks someone can manage
Something that you are able to do because you have enough skill, strength, or knowledge.
Examples
- This job is well within your capabilities.
- Don't try anything beyond your capabilities.