a strong word

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a strong word" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing language that conveys a powerful or intense meaning, often in the context of expressing opinions or emotions. Example: "While I appreciate your feedback, calling my work 'terrible' is a strong word; I believe it has its merits."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

That's a strong word.

The New York Times

Hate seems a strong word.

Independent

" 'Epiphany' is a strong word," he said.

The New York Times

Well, blessing may be a strong word.

The New York Times

(d) " 'Like' is such a strong word".

The New Yorker

"Deserves is a strong word," she said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

It's a strong word.

Huffington Post

Grave is a strong word, and many would dispute it.

The New York Times

"Hate?" I said to her. "Hate is a strong word".

The New Yorker

"Assault, that's a strong word," Mae said.

The Guardian

Also, I know "hate" is a strong word.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a strong word" when you want to gently push back against a term that feels too intense or inappropriate for the situation. It allows you to express disagreement without being confrontational.

Common error

Avoid using "a strong word" to shut down a discussion or invalidate someone's feelings. Ensure your intention is to encourage reflection on word choice, not to dismiss the speaker's perspective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a strong word" functions as a metalinguistic comment, drawing attention to the choice of language and its potential impact. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used to express the perception that a particular term is forceful or possibly inappropriate. The examples in Ludwig illustrate its usage in various scenarios where the speaker questions the intensity or accuracy of a word.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Wiki

6%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a strong word" is a versatile and commonly used expression to suggest that a particular term may be too intense or inappropriate for a given context. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely accepted. Predominantly found in News & Media, the expression serves a polite and non-confrontational way to initiate a discussion about word choice and its potential impact. Understanding its nuances and appropriate usage, as well as its potential misapplications, can significantly enhance effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that's quite a term

Focuses on the specific word being used, implying it might be exaggerated or unsuitable.

that's putting it strongly

Emphasizes the manner in which something is expressed, suggesting a less forceful approach might be preferable.

that might be an overstatement

Suggests the statement is exaggerated beyond what is reasonable or accurate.

perhaps that's too harsh

Indicates the term used is excessively severe or critical.

that's a rather loaded term

Highlights the potential for the word to carry unintended implications or biases.

that's quite an exaggeration

Implies the word inflates the reality.

that may be a bit much

Indicates the expression goes beyond what is necessary or appropriate.

that's a bold statement

Suggests the statement is daring and confident, potentially to a fault.

that's a dramatic way to put it

Implicates theatrics or hyperbole.

that's a colourful expression

Highlights the expressive, and potentially exaggerated, nature of the word.

FAQs

How to use "a strong word" in a sentence?

You can use "a strong word" to express that a particular term seems too intense or inappropriate for the situation. For example, "Calling it a 'disaster' is "a strong word"; wouldn't 'setback' be more accurate?"

What can I say instead of "a strong word"?

You can use alternatives like "quite a term", "putting it strongly", or "that might be an overstatement", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to say "a strong word"?

It's appropriate to use "a strong word" when you want to suggest a more moderate or precise term without directly criticizing the speaker. It's a polite way to initiate a discussion about word choice and its implications.

What's the difference between "a strong word" and "harsh language"?

"A strong word" typically refers to a single term that seems overly intense, while "harsh language" refers to a general style of speaking or writing that is offensive or aggressive. The former focuses on specific word choice, and the latter relates to overall tone and content.