as an agent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as an agent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to someone acting in a specific capacity or role, particularly in contexts involving representation or authority. Example: "She was appointed as an agent for the company to negotiate the contract on their behalf."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

As an agent provocateur, she was perfect".

The New York Times

My job as an agent was done".

Independent

As an agent, it's business as usual.

The Guardian - Books

Armstrong is relatively new as an agent.

The New York Times - Sports

That's why I work as an agent.

The Guardian - Books

I value it as an agent.

The Guardian

McMurdo still works as an agent.

The Guardian - Sport

And as an agent of creativity it is a landmark.

The New York Times - Arts

Denisova and Shobukhova both used Baranov as an agent.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Clinton presented himself as an agent for change.

The New York Times

Thus capitalism is applauded as an agent of social progress.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as an agent" to clearly define a role or function, especially when discussing representation, influence, or instrumentality. For example, "He presented himself as an agent of change."

Common error

Avoid using "as an agent" when simply describing a characteristic or quality. It should denote a specific, active role rather than a general attribute. Instead of saying "He is naturally as an agent", clarify the role: "He acts as an agent of influence in negotiations."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as an agent" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun or pronoun, indicating the role, capacity, or function someone or something assumes. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in various contexts, specifying the way in which an entity acts or is perceived.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Science

16%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "as an agent" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to define a role, function, or capacity. As Ludwig's analysis shows, it's grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in news, science, and encyclopedia contexts. The Ludwig AI analysis confirms the phrase's validity and offers useful alternatives like "in the capacity of" or "acting as". To ensure clarity, use "as an agent" when specifying a defined, active role, and avoid it when simply describing a general characteristic. By understanding its nuances, you can effectively incorporate "as an agent" into your writing to convey specific roles and responsibilities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the capacity of an agent

This alternative more formally specifies the role being fulfilled.

acting as a representative

Focuses on the act of representing, emphasizing the representative function.

serving as an intermediary

Highlights the role of connecting or mediating between parties.

functioning as a proxy

Emphasizes acting on behalf of someone or something else.

as a means of

Shifts the focus to the method or tool used to achieve a result.

through the agency of

Highlights the power or action exerted by the agent.

being an instrument for

Implies a passive role, where the agent is used to achieve a purpose.

working on behalf of

Stresses advocacy or acting in someone's interest.

in the service of

Suggests dedication or commitment to a cause or entity.

utilized as a vehicle for

Highlights the agent's role as a conduit or channel.

FAQs

How can I use "as an agent" in a sentence?

You can use "as an agent" to describe someone or something acting in a particular role or capacity. For example, "She works "as an agent" for artists" or "Capitalism is applauded "as an agent" of social progress".

What are some alternatives to saying "as an agent"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "in the capacity of", "acting as", or "serving as". Each alternative slightly shifts the emphasis, so choose the one that best fits your intended meaning.

Is it correct to say "as a agent" instead of "as an agent"?

No, the correct phrasing is "as an agent". The article "an" is used before words that begin with a vowel sound.

What's the difference between "as an agent" and "like an agent"?

"As an agent" indicates a defined role or function, while "like an agent" suggests a resemblance or similarity without necessarily holding the formal position. For example, "He acts "as an agent" for the company" versus "He negotiates like "an agent"".