a powerful instrument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a powerful instrument" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
Example: The media can be a powerful instrument in shaping public opinion.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The implementation of data mining is widely considered as a powerful instrument for acquiring new knowledge from a pile of historical data, which is normally left unstudied.

Human-centric Computing and Information Sciences

Numerical methods are a powerful instrument to solve this task.

Computers and Geotechnics

And they were right: the Forward under Cahan was indeed a powerful instrument of assimilation.

The New Yorker

"Agee had an unshakeable belief in documentary photography and film as a powerful instrument of truth.

The Guardian - Arts

In contemporary society, film has provided a powerful instrument for the moulding of such ethical attitudes.

Yale University

Trade is a powerful instrument of geopolitics, binding us to our allies.

The Washington Post

She wrote of photography as "a powerful instrument for depersonalising our relationship to the world".

The Guardian - Film

The standard American hospital bill is already a powerful instrument for redistributing income.

The New York Times

Nonpartisan and transparent fact-checking can be a powerful instrument of accountability journalism.

The Washington Post

STR online is certainly a powerful instrument, but it has its limitations.

Harvard University

The atomic force microscope (AFM) is a powerful instrument for microbiological investigation.

Micron

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a powerful instrument", ensure the context clearly defines what makes the instrument powerful. Specificity enhances the impact of the statement.

Common error

Avoid hyperbole. While "a powerful instrument" suggests significant capability, overstating its influence can undermine credibility. Ground the claim in demonstrable effects.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a powerful instrument" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It describes something that possesses significant ability or effectiveness, as confirmed by Ludwig and supported by numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

37%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a powerful instrument" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression that describes something with significant ability or effectiveness. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely applicable across various contexts, particularly in Science, News & Media, and Academia. While generally neutral in tone, using this phrase effectively requires ensuring the context clearly defines the source and nature of the instrument's power. Consider using related phrases like "a potent tool" or "an effective means" for nuanced expression. When writing, avoid exaggerating the instrument's power to maintain credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a potent tool

Replaces "instrument" with "tool" and "powerful" with "potent", emphasizing effectiveness.

an effective means

Substitutes "instrument" with "means", focusing on the method used to achieve a result.

a strong mechanism

Replaces "instrument" with "mechanism", highlighting the operational aspect of the tool.

a formidable asset

Changes the focus to the value provided by the instrument, describing it as a valuable resource.

a significant force

Emphasizes the impact of the instrument, portraying it as a driving influence.

a key enabler

Highlights the instrument's role in making something possible or facilitating a process.

a vital resource

Focuses on the necessity and importance of the instrument as a supporting element.

a crucial lever

Metaphorically describes the instrument as a tool that can exert influence or control.

a decisive factor

Highlights the instrument's role in determining an outcome or influencing a decision.

an influential channel

Focuses on the instrument as a conduit for impact or communication.

FAQs

How can I use "a powerful instrument" in a sentence?

You can use "a powerful instrument" to describe something effective at achieving a particular goal. For example, "Data analysis is "a powerful instrument" for understanding market trends".

What are some alternatives to "a powerful instrument"?

Alternatives include "a potent tool", "an effective means", or "a strong mechanism", depending on the specific context and desired nuance.

Is it correct to say "a powerful tool" instead of "a powerful instrument"?

Yes, "a powerful tool" is a correct and commonly used alternative. The terms are often interchangeable, although "instrument" can sometimes imply more precision or sophistication.

What's the difference between "a powerful instrument" and "a blunt instrument"?

"A powerful instrument" suggests something effective and precise, while "a blunt instrument" implies something effective but lacking in finesse or precision, potentially causing unintended consequences.