ability to exert

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ability to exert" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing someone's capacity to influence, control, or apply force in a particular context. Example: "The athlete's ability to exert maximum effort during the competition was impressive."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Muscles differ in the ability to exert stress.

Britannica

By virtue of his position, he also has the ability to exert influence over the three publicly operated national networks.

The New York Times

Saudi Arabia's entanglement in the conflict in Yemen limits its ability to exert influence elsewhere.

Independent

Yet that middle class is growing quickly, and experts warn against underestimating the government's ability to exert control.

The New York Times

But the fortunes of Tenet have risen, partly as a result of its ability to exert pricing pressure.

The New York Times

When they are moved, the boundaries have the ability to exert a force which opposes fluid motion.

Journal of Computational Physics

If anything, Federal Reserve members seem to be trying show their ability to exert their own influence.

The New York Times

The reversal suggested that his ability to exert independent power in either domestic or foreign affairs is diminishing.

The New York Times

Of course, as with all personality traits, some people are born with a greater ability to exert willpower.

The New York Times

We have also seen that the physiological ability to exert buoyancy control varies among cells of the same species.

Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Comcast will have unprecedented market power over consumers and an unprecedented ability to exert its influence over any channels or businesses that want to reach Comcast's customers".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the ability of an entity (person, organization, system) to influence or control something, use "ability to exert" to convey a direct and active application of power or force.

Common error

Avoid using "ability to exert" in overly passive constructions where the actor is unclear. Ensure the sentence clearly identifies who or what possesses the ability and what they are exerting it upon.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ability to exert" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes the capacity or power to apply force, influence, or control. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

39%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ability to exert" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase that describes the capacity to apply force, influence, or control. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely accepted and used across various contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Academia. When writing, clarity is key: ensure the subject possessing the "ability" is clearly identified. For alternative phrasings, consider "power to influence" or "capacity to control". Understanding these nuances will enhance the precision and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capacity to control

Stresses the power to govern or direct something.

power to influence

Emphasizes the potential to affect someone or something.

capability to apply

Highlights the potential to put something into operation or effect.

means to affect

Focuses on the methods available to produce a change.

capacity to wield

Focuses on the power to handle or use something effectively.

potential to exercise

Stresses the possibility of using a skill or quality.

authority to enforce

Highlights the legitimate power to compel obedience.

skill to command

Focuses on the expertise needed to control or direct.

aptitude to impose

Suggests a natural talent for enforcing something.

resources to implement

Emphasizes the availability of means to carry out a plan.

FAQs

How can I use "ability to exert" in a sentence?

You can use "ability to exert" to describe someone's capacity to influence or control something. For example, "The manager's ability to exert authority was essential for the project's success."

What are some alternatives to "ability to exert"?

Some alternatives include "power to influence", "capacity to control", or "capability to apply", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "ability to exert" or "ability to exercise"?

While both are valid, "ability to exert" emphasizes a direct application of force or influence, whereas "ability to exercise" suggests a more general application or utilization of a skill or right.

What does "ability to exert influence" mean?

"Ability to exert influence" refers to the capacity to affect the actions, decisions, or opinions of others. For instance, "Her charisma gave her the ability to exert influence over the team."