I am in a position to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I am in a position to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that you have the ability, authority, or circumstances to do something. Example: "I am in a position to offer you a promotion based on your outstanding performance this year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

I am in a position to make a positive change in my patients' lives.

Health & Justice

"I am in a position to buy you something".

The Guardian

I am in a position to know, because we lived directly below them.

The New Yorker

And this is why I am in a position to judge its merits.

The Guardian - Music

"I told the banks clearly, 'I am in a position to supervise you,' " Mr. Takenaka said.

The New York Times

I will update you again as soon as I am in a position to do so.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

He's in a position to know.

Forbes

I am in a privileged position.

The New York Times - Sports

And I'm in a good position".

The New York Times - Sports

"I was in a horrendous position.

Forbes

I'm in a very privileged position.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I am in a position to" when you want to convey that your current circumstances or role enables you to take a specific action or make a decision. It adds a layer of formality and authority to your statement.

Common error

While grammatically correct, avoid using "I am in a position to" in casual conversations or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "I can" or "I'm able to" are often more appropriate and sound less pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I am in a position to" functions as a declarative statement, asserting one's capacity or ability to perform a certain action. It indicates that the speaker possesses the necessary authority, resources, or circumstances to act. Ludwig provides examples that showcase this function in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

28%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I am in a position to" is a grammatically correct and widely used expression to convey one's ability, authority, or suitable circumstances to take a specific action. According to Ludwig, it's most frequently found in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business contexts, indicating a professional or neutral register. While highly versatile, it’s advisable to use simpler alternatives like "I can" or "I am able to" in informal settings to avoid sounding overly formal. Understanding these nuances ensures effective and contextually appropriate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I have the ability to

Focuses on inherent skill or capacity rather than circumstance.

I am able to

Directly expresses capability, simpler and more straightforward.

I have the capacity to

Emphasizes the potential or resources available.

I am capable of

Highlights the competence and skill involved.

I am authorized to

Indicates formal permission or mandate.

I am entitled to

Suggests a right or justification to act.

It is within my power to

Emphasizes control and influence.

I have the discretion to

Implies freedom to make judgments and decisions.

I am empowered to

Suggests being given the authority or power to do something.

I am at liberty to

Indicates freedom from constraint or obligation.

FAQs

What does "I am in a position to" mean?

It means you have the ability, authority, or circumstances that allow you to do something.

What can I say instead of "I am in a position to"?

You can use alternatives like "I am able to", "I can", or "I have the ability to" depending on the context.

How formal is the phrase "I am in a position to"?

The phrase is relatively formal and is suitable for professional or official communications. In more casual settings, less formal alternatives may be preferable.

When is it appropriate to use "I am in a position to"?

Use "I am in a position to" when you want to emphasize that your ability to do something stems from your current role, authority, or circumstances, adding a layer of credibility and justification to your statement.