What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
adequacy
Example
The adequacy of the training program was questioned after several employees failed to meet the expected performance levels. [adequacy: noun]
Example
The company's response to the crisis was adequate but not exemplary. [adequate: adjective]
capability
Example
The new software has the capability to handle large amounts of data. [capability: noun]
Example
She has demonstrated her capability as a leader by successfully managing a team of diverse individuals. [capability: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Capability is more commonly used than adequacy in everyday language. Capability is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while adequacy is less common and often used in professional or academic settings to describe meeting minimum requirements.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between adequacy and capability?
Adequacy is typically associated with a formal or academic tone, while capability can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
