Capability vs. Capable

Attribute	Capability	Capable
Definition	The power or ability to do something	Having the ability or capacity to do something
Skills	Refers to the specific abilities or expertise a person possesses	Having the necessary skills or qualities to perform a task
Potential	Refers to the latent ability or capacity to develop or achieve something	Having the potential to succeed or excel in a particular area
Performance	Refers to how well a task or activity is executed	Being able to perform a task effectively or efficiently
Adaptability	The ability to adjust to new conditions or changes	Being adaptable and flexible in different situations

Definition

Capability and capable are two words that are often used interchangeably, but they actually have distinct meanings. Capability refers to the ability or power to do something, while capable refers to having the skill or qualities necessary to do something effectively. In other words, capability is more about potential, while capable is about actual performance.

Attributes of Capability

When we talk about capability, we are referring to the inherent potential or capacity to achieve something. It is about having the necessary resources, skills, or qualities to accomplish a task. Capability is often seen as a measure of what is possible or achievable in a given situation. It is about what could be done under ideal circumstances.

• Capability is often seen as a measure of potential.
• It is about having the necessary resources or skills.
• Capability is about what could be achieved under ideal circumstances.
• It is more focused on the theoretical or hypothetical.
• Capability is about what is possible in a given situation.

Attributes of Capable

On the other hand, when we talk about being capable, we are referring to the actual ability or skill to perform a task effectively. Being capable means having the competence, experience, or knowledge to successfully complete a task. It is about demonstrating one's abilities in practice, rather than just in theory. Capable is more about what has been achieved or accomplished.

• Capable is about demonstrating actual ability or skill.
• It is about having the competence or experience to perform a task effectively.
• Capable is more focused on practical application.
• It is about what has been achieved or accomplished in reality.
• Being capable is about showing one's skills in action.

Examples

To better understand the difference between capability and capable, let's consider some examples. A person may have the capability to become a great musician because they have a natural talent for playing an instrument. However, they may not be capable of performing in front of a large audience because they lack the experience or confidence to do so. In this case, the person has the potential (capability) to be a great musician, but they are not yet able to demonstrate their skills effectively (capable).

Conclusion

In conclusion, capability and capable are two related but distinct concepts. Capability refers to the potential or capacity to achieve something, while capable refers to the actual ability or skill to perform a task effectively. Capability is more about what is possible in theory, while capable is about what has been achieved in practice. Understanding the difference between these two terms can help us better assess our own strengths and weaknesses, as well as those of others.