a sudden force

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sudden force" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an unexpected or abrupt physical or emotional impact. Example: "The car was pushed off the road by a sudden force of wind that came out of nowhere."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

His legs are solicited with heavy pounding on the brakes, which demand a sudden force of more than 100 kilograms, or 220 pounds.

The New York Times - Sports

The ship, loaded with two million barrels of oil, was heading toward Japan on July 28 when a sudden force shattered windows, ripped off deck railings and blew off a lifeboat, in addition to punching the dent into its black-and-red hull.

The New York Times

Particular results are obtained for a finite fibre that is initially at rest and unstressed, has one end fixed for all time and is subjected to either a sudden displacement or a sudden force at the other end.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

Even more to the researchers' surprise, the faster they pulled the pedipalp away, the stickier the droplet became, which shows that the glue is a so-called non-Newtonian fluid that, unlike most fluids, becomes more viscous when subjected to a sudden force.

Science Magazine

A sudden Force 10 squall caused the ship to drag anchor.

Wikipedia

A sudden Force 10 squall caused Campania to drag her anchor, collide with Royal Oak and then with Glorious.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

As he marched his captive down the ledges it took just the palm of a hand to the small of the back �� a jolt and sudden force, and the Canavan was over the ledge, and falling, and the rocks below made quick silent work of the hazel eyes, the languor, the cancer.

The New Yorker

If you apply sudden force, like a knee hitting a head, or a car or a baseball bat, that sudden acceleration changes the brain into something much more rigid and prone to damage".

BBC

Last week this seeming deadlock burst with the sudden force of a tropical storm, sweeping away all of its three leading figures.

The Economist

The way Stables sings the line "We're not ready yet" – with a half-break and a sudden insistent force, is particularly lovely.

The Guardian - Music

A French survivor, Daniel Rossetto, said the avalanche, which caught him and the two Danish climbers he was guiding, struck like a sudden, invisible force "without a sound, just a puff of air".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing an event caused by "a sudden force", ensure the language clearly conveys the immediate and unexpected nature of the force. For example, "The door slammed shut due to a sudden force of wind."

Common error

Avoid implying the force is sustained over a prolonged period. "Sudden" indicates an abrupt, short-lived action, not a continuous one.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sudden force" primarily functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object in a sentence. It describes something that exerts influence abruptly, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a sudden force" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe an abrupt and unexpected impact or exertion. According to Ludwig, it is most commonly found in news, science, and wiki contexts, maintaining a neutral register suitable for diverse writing. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by emphasizing the immediacy and brevity of the force being described. Consider alternative expressions like "an abrupt power" or "an unexpected impact" for nuanced variations in meaning. With its clear and versatile application, "a sudden force" remains a valuable tool for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an abrupt power

Emphasizes the quick and unexpected nature of the power exerted.

an unexpected impact

Highlights the unforeseen nature of the impact.

a burst of energy

Focuses on the rapid release of energy.

a violent thrust

Implies a forceful and aggressive push.

an instantaneous pressure

Stresses the immediate and intense application of pressure.

a sharp jolt

Conveys a sudden, jarring movement.

a powerful surge

Suggests a strong and sudden increase.

a swift impetus

Emphasizes the speed and driving power.

a rapid acceleration

Highlights the quick increase in speed.

an immediate strain

Indicates a sudden tension or pressure.

FAQs

How can I use "a sudden force" in a sentence?

You can use "a sudden force" to describe an abrupt and unexpected impact or exertion. For example, "The tree fell due to "a sudden force" of wind."

What are some alternatives to "a sudden force"?

Alternatives include "an abrupt power", "an unexpected impact", or "a burst of energy", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say 'a suddenly force' instead of "a sudden force"?

No, "a suddenly force" is grammatically incorrect. The correct phrase is "a sudden force", where "sudden" is an adjective describing the noun "force".

What is the difference between "a sudden force" and "sudden forces"?

"A sudden force" refers to a single, abrupt exertion. "Sudden forces" implies multiple instances or types of abrupt exertions.