Capability Meaning

UK /kəˈpeɪbɪləti/
US /kəˈpeɪbəlɪti/
Word Definition
capability meaning

Capability Definition & Usage

noun

The ability or power to do something, especially the ability to perform tasks or use resources effectively.

Examples

  • "Her capability in managing multiple projects simultaneously impressed everyone at the company."
  • "The team has the capability to deliver results within tight deadlines."
  • "With his technical capabilities, he quickly became the lead engineer on the project."
  • "The software’s capability to process large data sets made it invaluable to the research team."
  • "The new training program aims to enhance the capability of employees in leadership roles."
noun

The range of tasks or operations that a system, device, or person is able to perform.

Examples

  • "The smartphone's capability to run high-performance games has made it a popular choice among gamers."
  • "The new AI system has the capability to learn and adapt based on real-time data."
  • "The machine’s capability to handle high-pressure conditions was tested in the factory."
  • "The new model's capability to work in extreme temperatures is a breakthrough in the field."
  • "His knowledge of programming languages significantly increased the capability of the software development team."
noun

A person's natural talents, skills, or potential for development.

Examples

  • "She has the capability to inspire and lead others with ease."
  • "His leadership capability was evident from the way he managed the crisis."
  • "They recognized her capability to develop innovative solutions under pressure."
  • "Her artistic capability was nurtured through years of training and practice."
  • "The coach focused on enhancing the team's collective capability rather than individual performance."

Cultural Context

The word 'capability' originates from the Latin root 'capabilitas,' meaning the ability to take or hold. Over time, it has been adopted in both general and technical contexts to signify the potential or skill to accomplish tasks or manage resources. The modern usage is found across various fields such as business, technology, and personal development.

The Engineer's Test of Capability

Story

The Engineer's Test of Capability

Tom had always been known for his ability to solve complex problems quickly. When he joined the tech startup, he was tasked with leading a team to design a cutting-edge AI system. The company was looking for someone with the capability to navigate both technical and managerial challenges. As the project progressed, Tom found that his team was incredibly diverse, with different levels of technical knowledge and personal skill sets. While some of his team members excelled in programming, others struggled to meet the project’s ambitious deadlines. Tom knew that to succeed, they would need to leverage each team member’s unique capability. He began by offering targeted training sessions to increase the team’s capability to work together more effectively. But even more important was his ability to inspire confidence in his team. Tom’s leadership capability came into play when he handled a critical issue that almost derailed the project. The AI system they were working on had hit a major roadblock. But Tom, with his deep understanding of AI’s potential, saw an opportunity to pivot their approach. He encouraged his team to embrace the challenge, and together, they overcame the technical hurdle. As the project neared completion, Tom reflected on how far they had come. His capability as a leader had been crucial, but so had the capability of each individual on his team. Whether it was Sarah’s coding skills, Raj’s ability to conceptualize designs, or Emily’s knack for problem-solving under pressure, everyone’s capability contributed to their collective success. Tom knew that the true strength of a team lies not only in individual capabilities but in how those capabilities are unified towards a common goal.

The Engineer's Test of Capability