a demonstration of force

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a demonstration of force" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where one is referring to an exhibition or display of power, strength, or authority, often in a military or political context. Example: "The military conducted a demonstration of force to showcase their capabilities and deter potential threats."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Innocent in appearance, it was also a demonstration of force, and a first step toward organizing mass civil disobedience.

The New York Times

'This march is neither a provocation nor a demonstration of force, but a republican response to acts of delinquency,' he said.

The Guardian

"It is an alarming fact, a demonstration of force that is undermining the authority of Vladimir Putin who just took office, proclaiming the ideas of democracy".

The New York Times

"It is a demonstration of force: 'If you behave wrong, we will punish you,' " said Zakhar Prilepin, Novaya Gazeta's editor in Nizhny Novgorod.

The New York Times

Calling the vote a demonstration of force by Catalan nationalists, Emilio Sáenz-Francés, a professor of history and international relations at Madrid's Comillas Pontifical University, said it was also a wakeup call for Spain's central government.

The Guardian

The de facto deployment of new troops is much more than a demonstration of force; it is the implicit admission of an unsuccessful war campaign.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

It never gave any demonstration of force or violence but I always assumed it could fuck shit up if it wanted to".

Vice

Activision presented a demonstration of Elite Force at the E3 convention in May 2000, alongside Away Team and Bridge Commander.

Wikipedia

Seeing the world through their distorted interpretation of what ended the Soviet Empire, and colored by their (let me be blunt) racist view of Arabs, they really believed that a demonstration of overwhelming force ("shock and awe") and firm resolve, backed up by military might, would be sufficient to topple the dictator and liberate the people of Iraq.

Huffington Post

But at the end of the day it boils down to an unapologetic demonstration of force by the state.

The New Yorker

On 26 April 1941, the Prime Minister was shown a demonstration of the airborne force that Britain currently possessed, and was informed that although some 800 parachute troops had been trained, their deployment was severely limited by the lack of suitable aircraft which could be used to transport them to any prospective targets.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a demonstration of force" when you want to emphasize a deliberate display of power, be it military, political, or even social. Consider the audience and ensure the context warrants such a strong expression.

Common error

Avoid using "a demonstration of force" in casual or lighthearted situations. It carries a serious tone and should be reserved for scenarios where actual power dynamics are at play.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a demonstration of force" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically acts as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence, describing an event or action that exhibits power or strength. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and can be readily used in formal writing.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Wiki

18%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Science

10%

Science & Research

6%

News & Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a demonstration of force" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe the overt display of power or strength. While Ludwig AI confirms its correct use, it's important to consider the context. It is most commonly found in news and media, often relating to political or military scenarios. Related phrases include "a show of strength" and "a display of power". When using this phrase, ensure the tone matches the gravity of the situation to avoid miscommunication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a show of strength

Focuses on the aspect of physical or determined power being displayed.

a display of power

Emphasizes the visual and impactful nature of the power being exhibited.

an exhibition of might

Conveys a grand and impressive level of force.

a flexing of muscles

Suggests a deliberate and perhaps unnecessary display of power.

a power play

Highlights the strategic use of power to achieve a specific goal.

an assertion of authority

Focuses on the declaration and enforcement of power within a hierarchical structure.

intimidation tactic

Highlights the use of force to frighten or coerce.

coercive measure

Focuses on the forceful compelling of specific action through power.

a projection of dominance

Focuses on the act of conveying superiority.

muscle-flexing

Suggests a boastful or arrogant show of power.

FAQs

How can I use "a demonstration of force" in a sentence?

You can use "a demonstration of force" to describe an event or action that showcases power or strength. For example, "The military parade was "a demonstration of force" intended to deter potential aggressors."

What's an alternative to using "a demonstration of force"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a show of strength", "a display of power", or "an exhibition of might".

Is "a demonstration of force" always related to military actions?

No, while often associated with military contexts, "a demonstration of force" can also apply to political, economic, or even social situations where power is being asserted. The key aspect is the overt display of influence or authority.

What is the difference between "a demonstration of force" and "use of force"?

"A demonstration of force" implies a display of power without necessarily using it, whereas "use of force" refers to the actual application of power, often involving physical action or coercion.