Inklingo

How to Say "capability" in Spanish

English → Spanish

capacidad

/kah-pah-see-dahd//kapaˈsiðað/

nounB1general
Use 'capacidad' when referring to a person's inherent ability, skill, or the potential to perform a specific task or learn something well.
A young person standing confidently while effortlessly juggling three brightly colored balls high in the air, demonstrating natural skill.

Examples

Tiene una gran capacidad para aprender idiomas rápidamente.

She has a great ability to learn languages quickly.

Dudo de mi capacidad para terminar el proyecto a tiempo.

I doubt my capability to finish the project on time.

Todos tenemos la capacidad de cambiar nuestras vidas.

We all have the capacity (potential) to change our lives.

Always Feminine

Even though it ends in '-d', 'capacidad' is always a feminine noun, so you use feminine articles: 'la capacidad', 'una capacidad'.

Using 'de' after

When talking about the ability to do something, use the preposition 'de' followed by the base form of the verb (the infinitive): 'capacidad de trabajar' (ability to work).

Gender confusion

Mistake: “El capacidad”

Correction: La capacidad. Remember most nouns ending in '-dad' are feminine.

potencial

poh-ten-SYAL/po.tenˈsjal/

nounB2general
Choose 'potencial' when highlighting someone's undeveloped ability or the possibility of future success, especially in areas like talent or career.
A close-up illustration of a young, sturdy oak sapling with unusually large, deep roots extending downward into the soil, emphasizing its strong foundation for future growth.

Examples

El joven tiene un gran potencial para la música.

The young man has great potential for music.

Debemos aprovechar el potencial de la energía solar.

We must harness the potential of solar energy.

It's Always Masculine

When used as a noun meaning 'capacity' or 'capability,' 'potencial' is always masculine: 'el potencial'.

Using the Feminine Article

Mistake: “La potencial de la empresa.”

Correction: El potencial de la empresa. (Remember to use 'el' because 'potencial' as a noun is masculine.)

Capacidad vs. Potencial

Learners often confuse 'capacidad' and 'potencial'. Remember that 'capacidad' is about current ability or aptitude, while 'potencial' focuses on future promise or undeveloped talent. Don't use 'potencial' for a skill someone already possesses and demonstrates.

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