Capacity Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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capacity
[kəˈpæsəti ]
Definitions
mental ability
The mental or physical ability to do something or the amount that can be contained or produced.
Synonyms
ability, capability, potential.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| capacity |
Refers to the maximum amount something can contain or the maximum ability of a person or organization. Often used in logistics, healthcare, and general operations.
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| ability |
Denotes the physical or mental power to perform a task. Commonly used in contexts involving skills, talents, or competencies.
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| capability |
Focuses on the inherent qualities or features that enable someone or something to achieve a particular result. Frequently used in technical, military, or business contexts.
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| potential |
Indicates the possibility for future development or achievement. Often used in personal development, business, and scientific discussions.
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Examples of usage
- He has the capacity to understand complex concepts.
- The capacity of the stadium is 50,000 people.
volume
The maximum amount that something can contain.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| capacity |
Use when referring to the maximum amount that something can contain or accommodate. Often used for containers, venues, and abilities.
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| volume |
Use when referring to the 3-dimensional space occupied by a substance or an object, often liquids and gases. It can also refer to the loudness of sound.
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| size |
Use when referring to the physical dimensions of an object or a space. It's often used for non-liquid items.
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| extent |
Use when describing the range or scope of something, often abstract or qualitative measures like damage, influence, or coverage.
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Examples of usage
- The capacity of the bottle is one liter.
- The capacity of the hard drive is 1TB.
official position
The official position or role of a person or organization.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| capacity |
Describes the ability or volume to contain or produce something. Often used in technical, mechanical, or organizational contexts.
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| role |
Describes the part or character someone or something plays within a particular process, context, or organization. Commonly used in social, theatrical, or professional settings.
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| position |
Indicates a specific place, rank, or status within a context, typically within an organizational, geographical, or social hierarchy.
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| function |
Refers to the purpose or activity that something is designed to do or the natural duty it performs. Used in contexts involving technology, science, or business.
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Examples of usage
- He was sworn in to his new capacity as president.
- She served in a dual capacity as treasurer and secretary.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In physics, capacity often refers to the maximum amount of electrical charge a capacitor can store.
- In engineering, the capacity of a structure can determine how much load it can handle safely.
- Capacity can also apply to processes in biology, such as the maximum number of organisms that can live in an ecosystem.
Education
- In learning contexts, understanding a person's cognitive capacity can inform teaching methods.
- Classroom capacity ensures that educational environments remain conducive to effective learning.
- Capacity in education also relates to how much information students can absorb and retain.
Pop Culture
- Capacity often appears in movies and books to denote characters' abilities to learn or grow.
- Reality TV shows frequently challenge contestants' physical or emotional capacity in competitions.
- The exploration of human capacity is a common theme in motivational literature, encouraging personal growth.
Psychology
- Humans have emotional capacity, which refers to how much emotional stress or joy they can handle at once.
- Cognitive capacity affects how many tasks one can effectively juggle at the same time.
- Research shows that individuals with high open-mindedness often have greater capacity for diverse ideas and perspectives.
Origin of 'capacity'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'capacitas', which means 'ability to hold'.
- The term has been in use in English since the 15th century, highlighting the idea of ability and volume.
- Related words include 'capable' and 'capacity', both hinting at potential and limitations.
The word 'capacity' originated from the Latin word 'capacitas', which means 'ability to hold or contain'. It has been used in English since the 15th century. Over time, the meaning of 'capacity' has evolved to encompass various aspects of ability, volume, and official position.
See also: cap, capable, cape, caplet, caps, capstone, recap.