material ability
[/məˈtɪriəl əˈbɪləti/]
noun phrasepl: material abilities
capacidade material
1. The practical capacity or means to accomplish something based on physical resources, financial means, or physical strength
The company lacks the material ability to expand its operations without additional investment.
A empresa não tem a capacidade material para expandir suas operações sem investimento adicional.
2. Physical or tangible capability to perform an action or task
Despite his willingness to help, he simply didn't have the material ability to lift the heavy box.
Apesar de sua disposição em ajudar, ele simplesmente não tinha a capacidade material para levantar a caixa pesada.
3. The concrete means or resources available to achieve a goal
The team demonstrated the material ability to win the championship through superior training and equipment.
O time demonstrou a capacidade material para vencer o campeonato através de treinamento superior e equipamento.
This phrase is commonly used in legal, business, and philosophical contexts in both American and Brazilian English/Portuguese. In Brazil, it appears frequently in contracts, business proposals, and discussions about financial or physical feasibility. The term emphasizes the distinction between willingness or desire versus actual concrete resources or physical capability.
Related Idioms & Phrases
have the material ability to do something
lack the material ability
within one's material ability
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