bandwidth
Available capacity or mental energy to handle tasks
Examples
In a meeting
“I don't have the bandwidth to take on another project right now.”
Over coffee
“I'd love to help you move, but I just don't have the bandwidth this weekend.”
Why this word
capacity
bandwidth specifies data transmission rate or range of frequencies, while capacity is broader and less technical
range
bandwidth quantifies the specific spectrum or data rate available, while range is vaguer about what's being measured
resources
bandwidth pinpoints available transmission capacity or mental processing ability, while resources is generic about any available means
Usage tip
Widely understood in modern workplaces to mean capacity for work; avoid overusing as it can sound like jargon
Etymology
English: band (range) + width (extent); originally a technical telecommunications term
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Related words
backlog
An accumulation of work that needs to be completed
bandwith
Available capacity or resources to take on tasks
saturate
Fill completely until no more can be absorbed
overwhelm
To have too much to deal with or to overpower
broach
To bring up or introduce a topic for discussion
streamline
To make a process or system more efficient by simplifying or eliminating unnecessary steps.