In the deadly force triangle, what does capability mean?

• A. The intent to cause harm
• B. The ability or means to inflict death or serious bodily harm
• C. The opportunity to apply force
• D. The necessity of action

Answer: (B)

Capability means the subject has the means and the ability to inflict death or serious bodily harm at that moment. It’s about what they can do given the tools, training, and circumstances in front of you—for example, possessing a weapon, being trained to use it, and being close enough to deploy it quickly, or having the physical strength and reach to cause serious harm. It’s about potential to cause lethal harm, not just intent to harm or the chance to act. If someone lacks the means or ability to hurt you fatalistically in the moment, capability isn’t present, even if they intend harm or are nearby.