Capability vs. Possibility — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Urooj Arif — Updated on April 17, 2024
Capability refers to the ability or skills available to do something, while possibility denotes the potential or chance that something might happen.
Difference Between Capability and Possibility
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Capability involves the presence of skills, resources, or attributes needed to accomplish a task. In contrast, possibility hinges on circumstances that may allow an event to occur, irrespective of existing skills or resources.
A person's capabilities can be actively developed through education and experience, emphasizing a dynamic aspect of personal or organizational growth. Meanwhile, possibilities can be more speculative and influenced by external factors, often requiring less direct control and instead a strategic adaptation or foresight.
In project management, the capability of a team is assessed to determine what tasks they can handle effectively, focusing on internal competences and readiness. On the other hand, assessing the possibility of project success involves external risks like market fluctuations or regulatory changes, which are not necessarily tied to the team’s direct abilities.
Technological capabilities refer to what a system can achieve based on its design and functionality, such as a software’s capability to process certain types of data. Conversely, the possibility of technology adoption in a market might depend on factors like consumer behavior or economic conditions, which are less predictable.
In strategic planning, understanding capabilities allows organizations to leverage their strengths effectively. Meanwhile, recognizing possibilities enables them to anticipate potential challenges or opportunities in the environment, guiding them in risk management and innovation strategies.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
The quality of being capable; power or ability.
The state of being possible; likelihood or potential.
Focus
Internal attributes and resources.
External circumstances and chances.
Development
Can be enhanced through training and experience.
Often influenced by changes in external conditions.
Predictability
More predictable based on known resources.
Less predictable, often speculative.
Contextual Use
Often used in reference to skills and competences.
Generally used when discussing outcomes or events.
Compare with Definitions
Capability
The ability to perform or produce.
The engineer's capability to design complex systems is well-known.
Possibility
Potential for success or advancement.
Her proposal holds the possibility for major profits.
Capability
Specific competence or skill.
His linguistic capabilities impress everyone he meets.
Possibility
The state of being possible.
The possibility of rain this evening makes the picnic uncertain.
Capability
Quality of being capable.
Her capability in multitasking makes her an excellent manager.
Possibility
Uncertain chance of occurrence.
There's a possibility that the conference might be postponed.
Capability
Technological or operational power.
The new software’s capability to analyze big data is unparalleled.
Possibility
A potential outcome.
They discussed the possibility of relocating the business.
Capability
Inherent capacity for growth or achievement.
The team's developmental capability is crucial for project success.
Possibility
Something conceivable or imaginable.
The possibility of life on Mars excites scientists.
Capability
The power or ability to do something
The company's capability to increase productivity
He had an intuitive capability of bringing the best out in people
Possibility
A thing that may happen or be the case
There was the possibility that he might be turned down
Relegation remains a distinct possibility
Capability
The quality of being capable; ability.
Possibility
The fact or state of being possible
Investigating the possibility of life on other planets.
Capability
Often capabilities A talent or ability that has potential for development or use
A student of great capabilities.
Possibility
Something that is possible
His promotion now seems a possibility.
Capability
The capacity to be used, treated, or developed for a specific purpose
Nuclear capability.
Possibility
One that is capable of being chosen or of being made real
She is a strong possibility in the senatorial race. There are several possibilities for dessert.
Capability
The power or ability to generate an outcome
Possibility
Possibilities Potentiality for favorable or interesting results
The idea has great possibilities.
Capability
(computing) A digital token allowing a user or process to interact in a specified way with an object that is subject to access control.
Possibility
The quality of being possible.
Capability
The quality of being capable; capacity; capableness; esp. intellectual power or ability.
A capability to take a thousand views of a subject.
Possibility
A thing possible; that which may take place or come into being.
Capability
Capacity of being used or improved.
Possibility
An option or choice, usually used in context with future events.
Capability
The quality of being capable -- physically or intellectually or legally;
He worked to the limits of his capability
Possibility
(obsolete) Capability, power or capacity to act.
Capability
The susceptibility of something to a particular treatment;
The capability of a metal to be fused
Possibility
The quality or state of being possible; the power of happening, being, or existing.
Capability
An aptitude that may be developed
Possibility
That which is possible; a contingency; a thing or event that may not happen; a contingent interest, as in real or personal estate.
Possibility
A future prospect or potential;
This room has great possibilities
Possibility
Capability of existing or happening or being true;
There is a possibility that his sense of smell has been impaired
Possibility
A tentative theory about the natural world; a concept that is not yet verified but that if true would explain certain facts or phenomena;
A scientific hypothesis that survives experimental testing becomes a scientific theory
He proposed a fresh theory of alkalis that later was accepted in chemical practices
Possibility
A possible alternative;
Bankruptcy is always a possibility
Common Curiosities
How does understanding possibility benefit planning?
Understanding possibility helps in preparing for potential future scenarios, allowing for better risk management and strategic planning.
Is capability always positive?
Capability is typically seen as positive, as it denotes an entity’s ability to perform tasks or reach goals.
What role does possibility play in innovation?
Recognizing possibilities can drive innovation by identifying new and potentially successful paths for development or problem-solving.
What defines capability?
Capability refers to the qualities or resources someone or something has to achieve a specific task or function.
Are capabilities limited to individuals?
No, capabilities can refer to both individuals and organizations.
How do companies assess their capabilities?
Companies assess capabilities through audits, performance reviews, and competitiveness analyses.
How do capabilities develop?
Capabilities develop through education, training, and practical experience.
How is possibility different from probability?
Possibility indicates that something might occur, while probability quantifies the likelihood of its occurrence.
Can capability influence possibility?
Yes, enhanced capabilities can often increase the possibility of achieving desired outcomes.
What factors affect possibilities?
External factors such as market trends, economic conditions, and technological advancements can significantly affect possibilities.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
