capacity

word

/kəˈpæsəti/
kuh-PA-suh-dee
/kəpˈæsɪti/
kuh-PA-si-tee

Definition

Capacity is the maximum amount that something can hold or do. It can also mean a person's or system's ability to understand, produce, or handle something.

Usage & Nuances

Common in technical, business, and everyday contexts. Often used in phrases like 'full capacity', 'storage capacity', 'production capacity', and 'mental capacity'. Don't confuse it with 'ability': 'capacity' often sounds more formal and often refers to limits or potential.

Example Sentences

We're already near capacity, so hiring more people won't help unless we get more space.

natural

This bottle has a capacity of one liter.

basic

The room is at full capacity.

basic

She has the capacity to learn quickly.

basic

I know you're upset, but I just don't have the capacity to deal with this right now.

natural

The server's capacity can't handle that much traffic during peak hours.

natural