What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
role
Example
My role in the project is to oversee the budget. [role: noun]
Example
She played the role of the villain in the movie. [role: noun]
Example
As a parent, my role is to provide guidance and support. [role: noun]
capacity
Example
The stadium has a seating capacity of 50,000 people. [capacity: noun]
Example
I have the capacity to learn new skills quickly. [capacity: noun]
Example
He served as the ambassador in his capacity as a diplomat. [capacity: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Role is more commonly used than capacity in everyday language, especially in social and organizational contexts. Capacity is more commonly used in technical or specialized contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between role and capacity?
Capacity is more neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while role is more commonly used in informal and social contexts, but can also be used in formal contexts depending on the situation.
