a mere agent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a mere agent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is acting on behalf of another person or entity, often implying a lack of significance or authority in the role. Example: "In this transaction, he was just a mere agent, facilitating the deal without any decision-making power."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

In similar fashion, the act demanded of Braswell requires a personal disclosure of individual knowledge, a fact which cannot be dismissed by labeling him a mere agent.

Cornell University

The heart of the matter, as everyone knows, is that the Government does not see Braswell as a mere agent at all; and the majority's theory is difficult to square with what will often be the Government's actual practice.

Cornell University

I asked you what you answered him when he made that statement to you, when he said to you, for instance, that it was not possible for him to be a mere agent for German measures of coercion.

Yale University

When Ms. Abul Naga, the minister of planning and international cooperation, requested the investigation into foreign financing of nonprofit groups here, she was widely perceived as a mere agent of the ruling generals.

The New York Times

But why stop at being a mere agent when you could get a piece of the action?

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Rather than being contrary to Delaware law and tradition, a practical interpretation of § 271 that ignores the separate existence of a subsidiary when it is the mere agent or instrumentality of a parent in an asset sale is consistent with the expectation that our courts will give a sensible interpretation to statutes and not empty them of their utility as important protectors of stockholders.

Harvard University

He was the mere agent of the lawmaking department to ascertain and declare the event upon which its expressed will was to take effect.

Cornell University

Our elected officials will soon fill a function much like the one the media fills now, as mere agents of a greater power.

The Guardian

Unfortunately, the encroachment of the federal government in Medicaid threatens to reduce states to mere agents.

The New York Times

And their inherent contempt for the Pakistani troops is only deepened by their view, which I heard voiced repeatedly in Waziristan, that the Pakistanis were acting as mere agents of the United States.

The New Yorker

I can't have been older than 10 when I realised child beggars were mere agents of larger shadows up the street, and would end up with nothing I gave them.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a mere agent" to downplay someone's authority or influence within a particular context. It implies they are simply acting on behalf of someone else and have limited decision-making power.

Common error

Avoid using "a mere agent" when describing someone who genuinely holds significant responsibility or decision-making power. It can diminish their role and misrepresent their influence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a mere agent" functions as a noun phrase, specifically acting as a descriptor or appositive to further define the role or status of an agent. It suggests that the agent's role is limited or insignificant.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a mere agent" is grammatically sound and serves to diminish the perceived authority or importance of someone acting on behalf of another. According to Ludwig, this phrase is correct and usable in written English. Its usage spans various contexts including academia, news, and business, highlighting its versatility. While seemingly straightforward, be cautious not to undervalue individuals who genuinely hold significant responsibility. Alternatives like "simply an agent" or "just an agent" can soften the tone. Overall, the phrase's frequency is uncommon, so its impact lies in its precise application and understanding of its implications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

simply an agent

Replaces "mere" with "simply", emphasizing the straightforward nature of the agency.

just an agent

Substitutes "mere" with "just", highlighting the limited role of the agent.

only an agent

Uses "only" instead of "mere" to underscore the agent's restricted scope.

a simple intermediary

Replaces "agent" with "intermediary" and "mere" with "simple" suggesting a basic go-between role.

a nominal representative

Uses "nominal representative" emphasizing that the agent's power is in name only

a powerless instrument

Highlights lack of autonomy and emphasizes the instrumental nature of the agent.

a subordinate actor

Highlights the agent's position in a hierarchy of power and influence.

a tool

Uses a metaphorical comparison to highlight the agent's function as an instrument to reach a goal.

a pawn

Uses a metaphorical comparison to highlight the agent's manipulability and lack of control.

a figurehead

Highlights the agent's public function as a facade for other people's actions.

FAQs

How to use "a mere agent" in a sentence?

Use "a mere agent" to describe someone acting on behalf of another, with limited power or importance. For example, "He wasn't a decision-maker; he was "a mere agent" carrying out instructions."

What can I say instead of "a mere agent"?

You can use alternatives like "simply an agent", "just an agent", or "a simple intermediary" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to describe someone as "a mere agent"?

It's appropriate when the individual's role is primarily to execute the instructions of others, lacking significant autonomy or influence in the process. Be mindful of the potential negative connotations.

What's the difference between "a mere agent" and "a representative"?

"A representative" generally denotes someone authorized to act on another's behalf, without necessarily implying limited power. "A mere agent", however, suggests a more passive role with minimal decision-making authority.