aim to undermine

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "aim to undermine" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing intentions or goals that involve weakening or sabotaging something or someone. Example: "The group aims to undermine the authority of the current leadership through various means."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

By creating a parallel administration, the Maoists aim to undermine the state.

The Economist

These rumours (aim) to undermine the morale of the Syrian people.

The Guardian

She appears to have failed, however, in her aim to undermine the U.M.P. and refashion the political right in France.

The New York Times

She appears to have failed, however, in her aim to undermine the UMP and refashion the political right in France.

The New York Times

Purveyors of hate "aim to undermine this assurance, call it in question, and taint it with visible expressions of hatred, exclusion and contempt".

The New York Times

They aim to undermine political and socioeconomic stability in the country, damage democratic processes and seriously infringe on Soviet citizens' rights.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Obama would likely veto a bill that aims to undermine policies passed during his presidency.

The Washington Post

It is this credibility that Trump is now aiming to undermine.

The Washington Post

There is little doubt that the Trump Administration aims to undermine, defund, and repeal much of the progressive agenda.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The bombings were believed to have been carried out by Sunnis aiming to undermine confidence in the Shiite-led government.

The New York Times

I'm not convinced it isn't a parody piece aiming to undermine the case for interest rate increases.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "aim to undermine", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being undermined and the intended consequences. This will give clarity of thought.

Common error

Avoid using "aim to undermine" without specifying what is being undermined. This can lead to confusion and weaken the impact of your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "aim to undermine" functions as an infinitive phrase expressing a purpose or intention. It typically follows a subject and verb, indicating the goal of the action. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "aim to undermine" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that conveys a deliberate intention to weaken or destabilize something. As Ludwig AI indicates, it serves as a purpose connector, frequently appearing in news and media, science, and encyclopedic contexts. Its register is typically neutral, lending itself to objective discussions. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the target of the undermining action. While alternatives like ""seek to subvert"" or ""intend to weaken"" exist, "aim to undermine" provides a direct and widely understood way to express such intent.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seek to subvert

Emphasizes the intention to overthrow or destabilize, focusing on a more clandestine or rebellious approach.

intend to weaken

Highlights the goal of diminishing strength or effectiveness.

attempt to sabotage

Focuses on actively disrupting or damaging something, often secretly or maliciously.

plan to destabilize

Stresses the intent to create instability or disruption in a system or organization.

aspire to erode

Implies a gradual weakening or destruction of something over time.

desire to compromise

Suggests an intention to weaken or damage something, often through unethical or underhanded means.

purpose to destabilize

Highlights a firm resolve or intention to create instability.

resolve to counteract

Focuses on taking action to neutralize or negate the effects of something.

endeavor to discredit

Emphasizes an attempt to damage someone's reputation or make them appear untrustworthy.

strive to negate

Focuses on actively working to cancel out or nullify something.

FAQs

How can I use "aim to undermine" in a sentence?

You can use "aim to undermine" to describe an intention to weaken something. For example: "The protesters "aim to undermine" the government's authority".

What are some alternatives to "aim to undermine"?

Alternatives include "seek to subvert", "intend to weaken", or "attempt to sabotage", depending on the specific context.

Is it more appropriate to say "aim to undermine" or "aim at undermining"?

"Aim to undermine" is generally preferred. "Aim at undermining" is grammatically correct but less common.

What is the difference between "aim to undermine" and "try to undermine"?

"Aim to undermine" suggests a deliberate intention or goal, while "try to undermine" implies an attempt that may or may not be successful.