Language Research

capacity · noun

/kəˈpæs.ə.t̬i/Full view

capacity (AMOUNT)

B2 C or U the largest amount or number that a container, building, etc. can hold

Dictionary examples:

a restaurant with a capacity of 200

The new stadium has a seating capacity of 50,000.

The stadium was filled to capacity.

Learner example:

I would recommend the use of the state stadium next year for the concerts, in order to support the capacity of the crowd. (First Certificate in English; B2; Chinese)

capacity (ABILITY)

B2 C the ability to do, experience, or understand something

Dictionary examples:

She has a great capacity for hard work.

What impresses me is his capacity to absorb information.

Learner example:

On the other hand, I think [films] reduce your capacity [for] imagination. (First Certificate in English; B2; Catalan)

capacity (JOB)

C1 C a position or job

Dictionary example:

She attended over 100 events last year in her capacity as mayor.

Learner example:

I'm writing in my capacity as secretary of the Social Club of the language school to complain about the services provided to us during our visit to the Science and Technology museum. (Certificate in Advanced English; C1; Greek)