Search from various English teachers...
Angela
What is the difference between capacity and capability?
Can I use them interchangeably ?
E.G..
THE SYSTEM CAPACITY/CAPABILITY TO MONITOR THE EVENTS
THEIR R&I CAPACITY/CAPABILITY
ANALYTICAL CAPACITY/CAPABILITY
Feb 24, 2025 2:38 PM
Answers · 2
1
Capacity = how much something can handle.
Capability = whether something can do it.
✔ "System capacity" → How much it can monitor.
✔ "System capability" → Whether it can monitor.
They aren’t always interchangeable.
February 25, 2025
Great question, Angela!
The words "capacity" and "capability" are often used interchangeably, but have different meanings depending on the context.
1. Capacity
"Capacity" refers to the maximum amount something can contain, produce, or support. It refers to potential or limits. For example:
- The elevator's maximum weight capacity is 400kg.
- The factory has a production capacity of 5,000 items per week.
2. Capability
"Capability" refers to the ability or skill to do something, usually in terms of competence or functionality. For example:
- She has the capability to manage a team well.
- The new AI system has the capability to learn by interacting with users.
In short:
When we think about capacity, we ask "How much?"; when we think about capability, we ask "Is it possible?"
I hope this helps!
February 24, 2025
Still haven’t found your answers?
Write down your questions and let the native speakers help you!
Angela
Language Skills
English, Italian, Japanese, Ladino (Judeo-Spanish), Spanish
Learning Language
English, Ladino (Judeo-Spanish)
Articles You May Also Like

Same Word, Different Meaning: American, British, and South African English
22 likes · 17 Comments

How to Sound Confident in English (Even When You’re Nervous)
17 likes · 12 Comments

Marketing Vocabulary and Phrases for Business English Learners
14 likes · 6 Comments
More articles
