a clear stance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a clear stance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing someone's position or opinion on a particular issue, emphasizing that it is well-defined and unambiguous. Example: "In the debate, she presented a clear stance on climate change, advocating for immediate action to reduce carbon emissions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

By those yardsticks "Own the Night" takes a clear stance.

The New York Times - Arts

"The Lebanese government should take a clear stance.

The New York Times

The Dutch have indeed taken a clear stance in defence of their beloved Pete.

Independent

My father and coach Malcolm has a clear stance on this subject.

The Guardian - Sport

We need to go back to the basics and take a clear stance against prejudice.

The Guardian - Opinion

They take a clear stance against the prevalent idea that "Kebab-Norwegian" poses a threat to the Norwegian language.

Linguistics and Education

I sought a balance, clearly-articulated argument that developed a clear stance on any current news issue the student chose.

University of California, Berkeley

Even then, early failures, such as the lack of a clear stance on vital issues like currency, bedeviled the campaign.

The Economist

In fact, neither the government nor the international community has ever held a clear stance regarding the Taliban.

The Guardian - Opinion

"He's taken a clear stance on the war and torture, not switching back and forth like other candidates".

The New York Times

"They need a clear stance, because people need to trust them and they need to be accountable".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a clear stance" when you want to emphasize that a position is easily understood and leaves no room for misinterpretation. This is particularly useful in debates, formal statements, and legal documents where clarity is paramount.

Common error

Avoid using "a clear stance" in overly casual conversations or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or stilted. Opt for more natural expressions like "a strong opinion" or "a definite view" in such situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clear stance" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "stance" is the head noun and "clear" is an adjective modifying it. It is frequently used as the object of verbs such as "take", "adopt", or "articulate", as demonstrated by examples from Ludwig. It describes the quality of a position.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

18%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a clear stance" is a versatile phrase used to describe a well-defined and unambiguous position on a particular issue. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts, particularly in news, academic, and formal settings. When writing, use "a clear stance" to show clarity, but avoid overusing it in casual conversation. Some alternatives are: "a firm position", "a definite viewpoint", and "an unambiguous position".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a firm position

Replaces 'clear' with 'firm', suggesting a more resolute and unwavering stance.

a definite viewpoint

Substitutes 'stance' with 'viewpoint', focusing on a specific perspective or opinion.

an unambiguous position

Emphasizes the lack of ambiguity in the position taken.

a well-defined attitude

Replaces 'stance' with 'attitude', highlighting a settled way of thinking or feeling.

a decisive stand

Suggests a more active and resolute decision to take a particular position.

a resolute opinion

Highlights the firmness and conviction behind the expressed opinion.

an explicit declaration

Focuses on the act of openly and clearly stating a position.

a categorical assertion

Emphasizes the absolute and unconditional nature of the statement.

a pronounced view

Highlights how noticeable or obvious a view is.

a distinct perspective

Focuses on the unique and easily identifiable nature of the viewpoint.

FAQs

How can I use "a clear stance" in a sentence?

You can use "a clear stance" to describe someone's position on an issue, as in "The politician took "a clear stance" against the proposed legislation".

What are some alternatives to "a clear stance"?

Alternatives include "a firm position", "a definite viewpoint", or "an unambiguous position", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "a clear stance" or "a strong opinion"?

"A clear stance" emphasizes the comprehensibility and lack of ambiguity in a position, while "a strong opinion" highlights the intensity of the belief. The best choice depends on the aspect you want to emphasize.

When is it appropriate to use "a clear stance" in writing?

It is appropriate in formal writing, debates, and when clarity is essential. In informal contexts, consider alternatives like "a strong opinion" or "a definite view".