a display of force

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a display of force" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where one is referring to a show of power or strength, often in military or political situations. Example: "The military conducted a display of force to demonstrate their readiness and capability to respond to any threats."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

If a softly-softly approach failed, a display of force could be the next option.

The Guardian - Opinion

We don't know why they did this, maybe just as a display of force.

The Guardian

The raid is a methodical, room-by-room exercise in deadly aggression that is without parallel as a display of force in recent movies.

The New Yorker

In a display of force dozens of armed Palestinian Authority security force members rode through the streets of Hebron, long considered a stronghold of Hamas.

The New York Times

Columns of M1A1 Abrams tanks and M2 Bradley transports rumbled through the night in a display of force intended to reassert control of this unruly city.

The New York Times

In a display of force that troubled many Catholics here, a military police car remained parked outside the Archbishop's residence for two weeks after the incident.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Archives|FASCISTI WILL CELEBRATE.; Grand Council Orders a Display of Forces on Order's Anniversary.

The New York Times

FASCISTI WILL CELEBRATE.; Grand Council Orders a Display of Forces on Order's Anniversary.

The New York Times

When Keamy murders the freighter's captain (Grant Bowler) in a display of power, he is forced to comply, but is able to secretly transfer a satellite phone to the survivors as a warning.

Wikipedia

Mr. Khatami's visit was a display of power by Hezbollah, which helped force the Israeli withdrawal in 2000.

The New York Times

In a display of overwhelming force, an A-10 attack jet circled overhead and dozens of American vehicles surrounded seven mud compounds spread across a barren hillside.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a display of force" when you want to emphasize the visual and impactful nature of demonstrating power, especially in situations involving military, political, or strategic contexts.

Common error

Avoid phrasing sentences in a passive voice. For example, instead of "A display of force was made by the troops", use "The troops displayed force".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a display of force" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its use in diverse contexts, highlighting its role in describing events and situations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a display of force" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe a deliberate demonstration of power or strength. Ludwig AI confirms this. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it also appears in academic and wiki sources. When writing, remember its purpose is to highlight an intentional act of exhibiting might and be mindful of avoiding passive voice constructions. Alternatives include "a show of strength" and "a demonstration of power". The phrase maintains a neutral register, making it appropriate for diverse formal and informal communication scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a show of strength

Focuses on the inherent power being exhibited, rather than the act of displaying it.

a demonstration of power

Highlights the power itself and how it's being shown.

an exhibition of might

Emphasizes the impressive and imposing nature of the force.

a projection of dominance

Suggests an assertion of control and superiority.

a flexing of muscles

Implies a more aggressive and assertive display, often in a competitive context.

a power play

Conveys a strategic maneuver intended to assert dominance or gain an advantage.

an assertion of authority

Highlights the legitimacy and right to exert influence or control.

a show of teeth

Suggests a more menacing and threatening display of force, often implying potential aggression.

intimidating presence

Focuses on creating a sense of fear and apprehension through one's mere presence.

a forceful maneuver

Implies a calculated act of power and impact

FAQs

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

You can use "a display of force" to describe a situation where power or strength is being visually and purposefully demonstrated. For example: "The army's maneuvers were "a display of force" intended to deter potential aggressors."

What are some alternatives to "a display of force"?

You can use alternatives like "a show of strength", "a demonstration of power", or "an exhibition of might" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a display of force" in formal writing?

Yes, "a display of force" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly in contexts related to politics, military strategy, or international relations. It is also suitable for academic papers analyzing such events.

What's the difference between "a display of force" and "the use of force"?

"A display of force" refers to a demonstration or exhibition of power intended to intimidate or impress. "The use of force", on the other hand, implies the actual application of power to achieve a specific outcome or objective.