capacity
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /kəˈpæs.ɪ.ti/
KK: /kəˈpæsɪti/
adjective
Definition
The maximum amount that something can hold or contain.
Example
The stadium was filled to its full capacity during the championship game.
Conversation
Did you hear the concert is at full capacity this weekend?
Yeah, I can't believe how quickly the tickets sold out!
I wanted to go, but now I guess I'll have to wait for the next one.
Same here! Hopefully, the next concert will be just as popular.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
full
maximum
complete
Antonyms
empty
insufficient
limited
noun
Definition
The maximum amount that something can hold or produce, or the ability to do something.
Example
The stadium has a seating capacity of 50,000 people.
Conversation
Did you know that our school's gym has a limited capacity?
Really? I didn't think it could hold that many people.
Yeah, once it reaches that capacity, they won’t let anyone else in.
Root Explanation
Capacity → It is formed from "capere" (meaning to seize or take) and the suffix "-ity" (indicating a state or condition). The word "capacity" refers to the state of being able to hold or contain something, derived from the ability to take in.
Memory Tip
Think of 'taking' ('capere') something in and the '-ity' indicating a state. This helps you remember that capacity means the ability to hold or contain.
Visually Confused Words
incapacity
rapacity
paucity
overcapacity
opacity