a feat of willpower

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a feat of willpower" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an impressive display of self-control or determination in overcoming challenges or temptations. Example: "Completing a marathon without any prior training was truly a feat of willpower for her."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The fact that staying sober for a month is seen as a feat of willpower, and the subject of charity campaigns such as Dry January, shows just how embedded alcohol is in our lives.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

It was a feat of great willpower that I waited until Friday to tackle the review of a United States Open lobster roll.

The New York Times

A feat of legerdemain.

The New York Times - Arts

A feat of towering masochism?

The New Yorker

It is also a feat of language.

The New Yorker

It was a feat of great acting".

Independent

Writing is a feat of memory.

The Economist

But a feat of what, exactly?

The New York Times - Books

"What a feat of seamanship.

The Guardian

A Feat of Beautiful Engineering [Direct2Dell].

TechCrunch

"It's quite a feat of engineering".

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a feat of willpower" when you want to emphasize the role of personal strength and determination in overcoming a specific challenge or temptation. For instance, "Resisting the urge to check social media during work hours was a real "a feat of willpower".

Common error

Avoid using "a feat of willpower" for trivial situations. Save it for scenarios where genuine self-control is clearly demonstrated, or you may risk sounding hyperbolic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a feat of willpower" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or an appositive. It describes an action or event that exemplifies significant self-control and determination. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a feat of willpower" is a grammatically sound and readily understandable phrase used to describe a notable act of self-control and determination. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is correct and usable. While not exceptionally common, its presence in reputable news sources like The New York Times and The Guardian underscores its appropriateness in neutral contexts. When using this phrase, reserve it for genuinely impressive displays of self-mastery to maintain its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an act of determination

Focuses on the determined action rather than the willpower itself.

a display of self-control

Highlights the self-control aspect, emphasizing restraint.

a triumph of resolve

Emphasizes the successful outcome due to strong resolve.

a testament to inner strength

Focuses on the internal fortitude required to achieve something.

an example of sheer grit

Highlights the perseverance and courage involved.

a demonstration of fortitude

Emphasizes courage in facing pain or adversity.

a symbol of unwavering commitment

Focuses on dedication and steadfastness.

a mark of exceptional discipline

Highlights the self-discipline necessary for achievement.

an illustration of personal mastery

Emphasizes the control over oneself and one's actions.

a showcase of mental toughness

Highlights the psychological resilience demonstrated.

FAQs

How can I use "a feat of willpower" in a sentence?

You can use "a feat of willpower" to describe an impressive display of self-control. For example, "Completing the project under such tight deadlines was truly "a feat of willpower".

What are some alternatives to "a feat of willpower"?

You can use alternatives like "an act of determination", "a display of self-control", or "a triumph of resolve", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "a feat of willpower" or "an act of willpower"?

"A feat of willpower" is more common and emphasizes the accomplishment or impressive nature of the self-control displayed. "An act of willpower" is grammatically correct but less frequently used.

When is it appropriate to describe something as "a feat of willpower"?

It is appropriate to describe something as "a feat of willpower" when someone has overcome a significant challenge or temptation through strong self-control and determination.