capacity to act
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capacity to act
The ability of a person, organization, or government to act independently, make decisions, and implement them.
Nach der Regierungskrise muss das Kabinett seine Handlungsfähigkeit schnell wiederherstellen.
After the government crisis, the cabinet must quickly restore its capacity to act.
The word can be broken down into its components: 'Handlung' (action) + '-s-' + 'Fähigkeit' (ability/capacity). So it literally means the 'ability to act'.
Durch die neuen Gesetze wurde die Handlungsfähigkeit der Organisation gestärkt.
The new laws strengthened the organization’s capacity to act.
In general and political usage, 'Handlungsfähigkeit' (capacity to act) is often combined with certain verbs. Common phrases include 'Handlungsfähigkeit wiederherstellen' (to restore capacity to act), 'verlieren' (to lose), 'beweisen' (to prove), or 'sicherstellen' (to ensure).
Die Regierung muss ihre Handlungsfähigkeit unter Beweis stellen.
The government must prove its capacity to act.
The legal meaning is a technical term from the field of law. In this context, the word describes the legal authority to conclude valid contracts or to be responsible for one’s own actions.
Aufgrund seines Alters besitzt der Jugendliche noch nicht die volle Handlungsfähigkeit.
Because of his age, the young person does not yet have full legal capacity.
autonomy
'die Autonomie' and 'die Handlungsfähigkeit' both have to do with making decisions and acting independently. 'Autonomie' emphasizes the freedom or right to decide for oneself. 'Handlungsfähigkeit', on the other hand, emphasizes that a person or organization is actually able to act and can also put decisions into practice. The words can be confused because both often appear in connection with people, groups, or governments. The practical difference is this: Autonomie is more about the question, 'Is someone allowed or able to decide for themselves?' Handlungsfähigkeit is more about the question, 'Can someone act effectively in this situation?'
Nach dem Stromausfall stellt die Stadt schnell ihre Handlungsfähigkeit wieder her.
After the power outage, the city quickly restores its capacity to act.
Im Studium lernt sie, ihre Autonomie zu nutzen und eigene Entscheidungen zu treffen.
At university, she learns to use her autonomy and make her own decisions.