Ability / Capacity

Certain sets of words in the English language tend to confuse people. I have found the following to be among them:

ABILITY / CAPACITY

There is a fine distinction between these two nouns. The word ability indicates acquired skill or proficiency while capacity denotes natural aptitude or possibility for. 

CORRECT: Many Samoan boys have the capacity to become excellent football players, but few achieve the outstanding ability of 12-year Pittsburgh Steeler safety Troy Polamalu.  

© 2022 Ann Henry. All Rights Reserved.

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