be firm about

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be firm about" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that you believe something strongly and that you will not change your opinion about it. Example: "I'm going to be firm about my decision to not take on any additional work right now."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

We have to show support for our delegation and ask them to be firm about our demands.

The Guardian

Be firm about what you want to achieve: your cost of living rise, regardless of what other people are earning.

The Guardian - Money

He must be firm about the Bundesbank's commitment to price stability, but make clear that the relevant measure is price stability in the euro zone as a whole.

The Economist

I mean I think we need to have an attorney general that says if laws are broken we'll enforce the law, be strict about, be firm about it.

The New York Times

In Tulsa, the Rev. Ron Babbit of Contact Church of Christ said, "We can be firm about kids not seeing it".

The New York Times

"The idea," that diplomat said, would be to be "firm about all the violations, at the same time is supporting backing the diplomatic approach".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

But Palmer was firm about the matter.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Bess is firm about the benefits to the tribe.

The New York Times

Bake until crust is firm, about 15 minutes.

The New York Times - Food

But at the same time, Mr. Lee was firm about how much real discussion would be tolerated.

The New York Times

In a similar way, he is firm about the shortcomings he perceives in his initial effort.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be firm about", ensure the context clearly indicates what you are being firm about. Specificity enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

While "be firm about" is generally acceptable, consider using more nuanced or informal alternatives like "stick to your guns" or "stand your ground" in casual conversations to sound more natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be firm about" functions as a directive, urging someone to maintain a strong and unwavering stance on a particular matter. Ludwig AI's examples illustrate its use in various contexts, emphasizing the importance of resoluteness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Wiki

37%

News & Media

29%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Science

17%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be firm about" is a directive phrase used to encourage or advise someone to maintain a strong and unwavering stance. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While it's not overly formal, it's best suited for contexts where resoluteness and conviction are valued. Common contexts include news, general advice, and business settings. When writing, ensure clarity by specifying what exactly you're advocating firmness about. For diverse expression, consider alternatives such as "be adamant about" or "stand your ground on".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be adamant about

Implies a strong and unshakeable conviction.

stand your ground on

Emphasizes defending a position rather than just holding it.

hold steadfast to

Highlights unwavering commitment, more formal.

be resolute regarding

Conveys determination, more formal and emphatic.

maintain your stance on

Focuses on continuing to hold a specific opinion or position.

be unyielding in

Suggests inflexibility, potentially negative connotation.

be unwavering on

Highlights consistency and lack of change.

take a hard line on

Implies a strict and uncompromising approach.

insist upon

Stresses the act of demanding or requiring something.

not budge on

Informal, emphasizes refusal to compromise.

FAQs

How can I use "be firm about" in a sentence?

You can use "be firm about" to express a strong and unwavering stance on a particular matter. For example, "It's important to be firm about your boundaries" or "The company needs to be firm about its commitment to sustainability".

What are some alternatives to "be firm about"?

Some alternatives to "be firm about" include "be adamant about", "stand your ground on", or "hold steadfast to", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to "be firm about" something or "be strict about" it?

"Be firm about" generally implies a resolute and unwavering stance, while "be strict about" suggests enforcing rules or regulations rigorously. The best choice depends on the specific context. For instance, you might "be firm about" your principles but "be strict about" safety protocols.

What does it mean to "be firm about" something?

To "be firm about" something means to have a strong, unwavering conviction or stance regarding that particular thing. It suggests a determination to not compromise or change your position.