Word
capability
Phoneticsca·pa·bil·i·ty, stress on the third syllable
US/ˌkeɪpəˈbɪɫəti/
UK/kˌeɪpəbˈɪlɪti/
Definitions
01ability to do something
B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun
n. the power or ability to do something or reach a goal.
n. the quality or state of being capable; the power or ability to generate a specific outcome.
“The new software has the capability to translate text into fifty different languages.”
“The company's long-term success depends on its capability to innovate faster than its global competitors in the renewable energy sector.”
Antonyms
02military/technical power
C1 · Advanced Countable noun Formal
n. the specific things a country's military or a large machine can do.
n. the total facilities, resources, or forces available for a specific purpose, often used in military or industrial contexts.
“The country is trying to improve its defensive capabilities against cyber attacks.”
“The treaty was designed to limit the nuclear capabilities of both nations to prevent further escalation of the conflict.”
03computing security
C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Computing Technical
n. a digital key that lets a user or program access a specific file or part of a computer.
n. a digital token or key that allows a user or process to interact with a specific object under access control.
“The system administrator granted the user a capability to edit the database.”
“In a capability-based security model, a process can only perform an action if it possesses a token specifically granting that right.”
Usage
Often used in the context of object-based security models.
Synonyms
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “capability” in context.
Verb
01. have capability
“The new software does not yet have the capability to process high-resolution video files.”
verb + noun
Real-World Examples
“They will incorporate exercises to counter drones, GPS disruption, and cyberattacks as the US and its allies adapt to North Korea’s evolving capabilities.” “The firm has promised to invest billions of dollars in AI capabilities and workforce training.” Etymology
Formed in Modern English as capable + -ity.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Common
- Level
- C1 · AdvancedOxford
- Updated
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