The phrase "had capacity for" refers to someone's ability or potential to do something. Some synonyms for this phrase include "was capable of," "had the potential for," "was able to," "had the aptitude for," "possessed the skill to," and "had the talent for." These synonyms all convey the same meaning, but use different words to do so. Each synonym may be more appropriate in certain contexts, so it is important to choose the right one for your specific situation. By using these synonyms, you can add variety to your writing and convey your ideas more effectively.