a test of wills

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a test of wills" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where two or more parties are trying to assert their dominance or determination against each other. Example: "The negotiation turned into a test of wills, with both sides refusing to back down."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

Okay, so the guy fails in a test of wills against two men who are putatively the most strong-willed people in the country.

Huffington Post

"This is becoming a test of wills," Mr. Macaluso said.

The New York Times

"This was turning into a test of wills.

The New York Times

From there, it became a test of wills.

The New York Times - Sports

It's a test of wills and of nerves.

The New Yorker

In a test of wills, Monfils looked spent.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

This is a test of will for our country.

The New York Times

We talked all week about how this would be a test of will.

The New York Times - Sports

It's a provocation, a test of will and a hamfisted two-finger salute to the authorities.

The Guardian

The race is a test of will and endurance that quickly weeds out the weak.

The Economist

Since it's a test of will, the most important thing becomes not resolving the issue in a productive way, but demonstrating the implacability of our will.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a test of wills", ensure the context clearly involves opposing forces or individuals demonstrating strong resolve. This phrase is most effective when highlighting the determination and persistence of each party involved.

Common error

Avoid using "a test of wills" when the situation involves simple disagreement or misunderstanding. The phrase implies a significant level of determination and potential conflict. Use softer language when describing minor disputes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a test of wills" functions as a noun phrase. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and widely used. It typically serves as the subject complement or object of a verb, describing a situation characterized by strong opposition and determination from opposing sides.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

1%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a test of wills" is a common idiom used to describe situations characterized by strong opposition and determination. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and highlights its frequent usage in News & Media. It effectively conveys a sense of intense conflict or negotiation where the outcome depends on the resolve of the involved parties. When using this phrase, ensure that the context reflects genuine determination and opposition, differentiating it from mere disagreement. Alternative phrases like "a battle of wills" or "a contest of determination" can be used for slight variations in emphasis. Overall, "a test of wills" is a versatile phrase suitable for both formal and informal contexts to express significant opposition and resolve.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a battle of wills

Emphasizes the confrontational aspect, suggesting a direct clash of determination.

a struggle for dominance

Highlights the competition for power and control between parties.

a trial of strength

Focuses on the exertion of power and resilience in overcoming challenges.

a contest of determination

Stresses the resolve and firmness each party brings to the situation.

a clash of egos

Highlights the personal pride and self-importance driving the conflict.

a power play

Implies strategic maneuvering to gain an advantage over others.

a war of attrition

Suggests a prolonged conflict where each side aims to wear down the other.

a game of chicken

Implies a risky situation where neither party wants to back down first.

a standoff

Describes a situation where opposing parties are locked in a stalemate.

an exercise in brinkmanship

Focuses on pushing a situation to the edge of danger to achieve a desired outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "a test of wills" in a sentence?

You can use "a test of wills" to describe situations where individuals or groups are in strong disagreement and both are determined to prevail. For example, "The negotiation became "a test of wills", with neither side willing to concede."

What's a good substitute for "a test of wills"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a battle of wills", "a struggle for dominance", or "a contest of determination" as alternatives to "a test of wills".

Is it appropriate to use "a test of wills" in formal writing?

Yes, "a test of wills" is suitable for formal writing, particularly in contexts such as news reporting, academic analysis, or professional assessments where strong determination or conflict is being described. Its usage is widespread and accepted in formal language.

What's the difference between "a test of wills" and "a difference of opinion"?

"A test of wills" implies a stronger level of conflict and determination compared to "a difference of opinion". The former suggests that both parties are actively trying to assert their dominance or resolve, while the latter simply indicates a disagreement without the same level of intensity.