Capabilities Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/kæpəˈsɪtiz/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

The attributes, abilities, or skills an individual, group, or organization possesses that enable them to perform specific tasks, make decisions, or achieve certain goals.

Examples

• The company’s capabilities in data analysis enabled them to make informed business decisions.
• The team’s capabilities in problem-solving allowed them to overcome complex technical issues.

Synonyms

• Skills
• Abilities

Antonyms

• Limits
• Constraints

Additional Information

Capabilities are often considered essential for achieving success in various fields, including business, technology, and education. Understanding individual or organizational capabilities is crucial for effective decision-making, resource allocation, and strategic planning. Developing one’s capabilities through training, experience, and innovation can lead to improved performance, increased competitiveness, and enhanced overall performance.

Capabilities can also be categorized into different types, such as technical, soft, or leadership capabilities, each with its unique characteristics and importance.

Etymology

The term “capability” originates from the Latin word “capax,” meaning “able” or “having the capacity,” and the suffix “-ity,” indicating a quality or state.

Usage Notes

Capabilities can refer to either individual or organizational attributes, and should be used in contexts that emphasize development, enhancement, or utilization of skills and abilities.

Cultural References

Capabilities have been referenced in popular culture, such as in the 2015 film “The Martian,” where the protagonist, played by Matt Damon, uses his capabilities as a botanist to survive on Mars.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• “Capabilities and limitations”
• “Developing one’s capabilities”

Related Words or Phrases

• Strengths
• Weaknesses
• Talents

Collocations

• Capabilities assessment
• Capabilities planning
• Capabilities gap

Frequency of Use

Capabilities is a commonly used term in modern language, particularly in business and education contexts, with a frequency of use estimated to be around 1 in 100 in formal and informal writing.

Common Misspellings

• Capabillities
• Capacities