Capabilities: meaning, definitions and examples

Refers to the qualities or features that allow someone or something to achieve a particular thing, often used in a broader sense than 'ability'.

• The new phone has impressive capabilities.
• The company is expanding its technological capabilities.

Used to describe a skill or proficiency in doing something specific.

• She has the ability to solve complex problems easily.
• His ability to play the piano is impressive.

Describes the maximum amount that something can contain or the power to do or understand something.

• The stadium has a seating capacity of 50,000 people.
• She has a great capacity for learning new languages.

Refers to the inherent ability or qualities that may be developed and lead to future success or usefulness.

• That young athlete has a lot of potential.
• The project has great potential for success.

Used to describe the potential or ability of a person, team, or machine to perform various tasks. It typically refers to the higher-level potential in a general and broad sense.

• The new software has advanced capabilities that make complex calculations easier.
• The team's diverse capabilities allowed them to complete the project ahead of schedule.

Used to describe the abilities someone has learned and can apply to specific tasks. These can be technical, interpersonal, or practical skills. It's a more general term often used in everyday conversations.

• She has excellent communication skills.
• His programming skills are top-notch.

Refers to a set of defined behaviors or skills that enable a person to effectively perform in a job or specific role. Often used in a professional setting to describe necessary attributes.

• She was hired for her strong leadership competencies.
• The program aims to develop the competencies of young professionals.

Implements in situations where deep knowledge or skill in a particular field is required. It often suggests a higher level of proficiency, usually gathered through extensive experience or education.

• His expertise in artificial intelligence is well-regarded in the industry.
• We need your expertise to solve this complex problem.

This term is often used in contexts where diverse skills, features, or functions of a person, machine, or organization are referred to. It's formal and broad.

• The software's capabilities include data analysis and visualization.
• The team's capabilities have improved with the new training program.

Strength is a versatile term that can refer to physical power, durability, or mental resilience. It is broader and can be used in many different situations.

• His physical strength allowed him to lift heavy weights.
• Her strength of character helped her overcome the challenges.

Capacity refers to the maximum amount something can contain or produce. It's used in both physical and abstract contexts.

• The auditorium has a seating capacity of 500 people.
• Her capacity for empathy is remarkable.

Firepower is typically used in military or competitive contexts to describe the strength and effectiveness, particularly in terms of weaponry or force.

• The army increased its firepower with new advanced weapons.
• The software company showed its firepower by acquiring several smaller firms.