align

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "align" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe two or more objects (including ideas) being arranged into a straight line or placed in a way that matches each other. Example sentence: We need to align the goals of our team in order to ensure our long-term success.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I don't know why I've lasted – you focus on the music, and sometimes the stars align and sometimes they don't.

The Guardian

"However, what is emerging now is a much more collaborative approach with all stakeholders seeing how they can align their services to fill gaps.

The Guardian

"Doing so won't simply demonstrate respect for a longstanding part of their audience, but it will align Hollywood film with other media in telling more authentic stories that represent the full diversity of our society and encourage greater understanding.

The Guardian - Film

"While this can feel like an arduous and lengthy part of the process, it is a great opportunity to align everyone's expectations as to what the partnership will specifically involve.

The Guardian

That's true, though it's hard to see what difference it makes: if thinktanks survive and prosper because their position just happens consistently to align with the grimmest of corporate interests, the politics of the relationship don't change very much.

The Guardian - Opinion

He laid out plans to align what GPs do with the rest of the NHS, to improve the capacity of general practice and increase numbers of GPs.

The Guardian

Not a bill of rights, but a move towards something that, if all goes well and the stars align, could result at some point in a bill of rights.

The Guardian - Opinion

We'll all know that our votes will once again only help to shore up a coalition that nobody can fully align with.

The Guardian

"Meanwhile, brands increasingly want to align with premium video content and engage consumers at scale.

The Guardian

First, while the coalition has opted for certain research priorities, it is hard to prove they do not align with the science and research community.

The Guardian

Because if the form book holds, and the triathlon planets align, the brilliant Brownlee brothers, Alistair and Jonny will complete an historic fraternal 1-2 in this race at around 1.20pm today.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "align", ensure that the objects you are aligning are clearly defined and that the intended relationship between them is evident. For instance, "Align the marketing strategy with the overall business goals."

Common error

Avoid using "align" when a different verb would more accurately convey the intended meaning. For example, instead of saying "Align your thinking with mine", consider using "Agree with" or "Understand" to be more precise.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "align" is as a verb, indicating the act of bringing into correspondence or adjustment. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its use in various contexts, affirming its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "align" functions as a versatile verb used to express the act of bringing elements into agreement or correspondence. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across diverse contexts like news, business, and general writing make it a valuable addition to any writer's vocabulary. To ensure effective communication, remember to use "align" when you want to express the intention to harmonize, coordinate, or adjust elements to achieve a desired state of agreement or conformity. Understanding its function and applying best practices will enhance the clarity and precision of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

coordinate

Implies bringing different elements into a common action, movement, or condition.

synchronize

Suggests causing things to occur or operate at the same time or rate.

harmonize

Indicates bringing things into agreement or accord.

correspond

Emphasizes similarity or analogy between two things.

dovetail

Describes fitting together neatly and harmoniously.

match up

Indicates finding or creating a similarity or correspondence.

bring into line

Suggests forcing something to conform to a standard or requirement.

make consistent

Highlights the act of ensuring uniformity or agreement.

adjust

Implies making small changes to achieve a desired state or position.

attune

Suggests bringing something into harmony or sympathetic relationship.

FAQs

How can I use "align" in a sentence?

You can use "align" to mean to bring into agreement or conformity; to adjust to a line. For example, "We need to "align" our strategies with the company's goals."

What are some alternatives to using "align"?

Alternatives to "align" include "coordinate", "harmonize", or "match up", depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "align" and "agreement"?

"Align" is a verb that suggests the act of bringing things into correspondence, while "agreement" is a noun that represents a state of accord. You "align" your actions to reach an agreement.

Is it correct to say ""align" with" or ""align" to"?

Both "align with" and "align to" are grammatically correct, but they convey slightly different meanings. "Align with" suggests agreement or support, while "align to" suggests conformity or adherence to a standard.