a powerful weapon

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a powerful weapon" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing tools, strategies, or methods that have significant impact or effectiveness. Example: "In the fight against climate change, renewable energy sources are a powerful weapon for reducing carbon emissions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The panel's subpoena power could be a powerful weapon in their arsenal.

The Washington Post

Humor's a powerful weapon.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Fear is a powerful weapon.

The New York Times

Dread is a powerful weapon.

The Guardian - Opinion

This makes leaking a powerful weapon.

The Washington Post

WHEN credit is tight, cash is a powerful weapon.

The Economist

Mr. Cuomo is wielding a powerful weapon in his case.

The New York Times

If no one talks about it, it's a powerful weapon.

The New York Times

Social media has become a powerful weapon in the battles.

Independent

But he has a powerful weapon when the time comes.

The Economist

Indifference is a powerful weapon in her hands.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the connotations of 'weapon'. While it effectively conveys strength, it can also imply conflict or opposition. Choose this phrase when such implications are appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "a powerful weapon" in overly passive constructions (e.g., 'It was considered a powerful weapon'). Opt for active voice to make your writing more direct and impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a powerful weapon" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where 'powerful' modifies the noun 'weapon'. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase effectively describes something that provides a significant advantage or has considerable impact. It is broadly employed across varied contexts to highlight effectiveness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

30%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a powerful weapon" is a versatile phrase used to describe anything that provides a significant advantage or has considerable impact. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and widely accepted. While the phrase appears in a variety of contexts, it is most commonly found in news, media, science, and academic writing. When using this phrase, consider the implications of 'weapon' and ensure the context clearly identifies what makes the subject powerful. Consider alternatives such as "a potent instrument" or "an effective strategy" to refine the message. Be mindful of passive voice, and strive for active constructions to maximize the phrase's impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a potent instrument

Substitutes "weapon" with "instrument", suggesting a tool or means used to achieve a specific purpose with great effectiveness; slightly more formal.

a formidable tool

Replaces "powerful" with "formidable", emphasizing the quality of inspiring fear or respect through being impressively large, powerful, intense, or capable.

an effective strategy

Shifts the focus from a tangible object to a plan of action that is successful in achieving a particular goal.

a key instrument

Synonymous of "a potent instrument", suggests a tool or means used to achieve a specific purpose with great effectiveness; slightly more formal.

a decisive advantage

Highlights the benefit of having something that significantly improves one's chances of success.

a major advantage

Replaces the metaphor of "weapon" with a more direct term for something that confers an advantage.

a game-changing asset

Emphasizes the transformative impact of a resource or capability.

a strategic resource

Highlights the importance of the thing being a weapon to be something vital for achieving strategic goals.

a strong asset

Uses simpler language to convey the idea of something valuable and beneficial.

a vital resource

Emphasizes the essential nature of the resource in question.

FAQs

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

You can use "a powerful weapon" to describe anything that gives someone a significant advantage or is very effective. For example: "Data analysis is "a powerful weapon" in modern marketing".

What are some synonyms for "a powerful weapon"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a potent instrument", "a formidable tool", or "an effective strategy", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use the metaphor of "a powerful weapon"?

While generally acceptable, be mindful that using the term "weapon" can sometimes imply conflict or negativity. Choose your words carefully to ensure they align with the overall tone and message of your writing.

In what contexts is "a powerful weapon" most frequently used?

Ludwig's analysis suggests that "a powerful weapon" appears frequently in contexts related to news and media, science, and academic discussions. Its suitability will depend on the register of your intended audience.