by force

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by force" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you need to describe something that happened through the use of physical or military power. For example: "The dictator assumed power by force in 1989."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Not by force?

The New York Times

By force?

The Guardian

That you came by force.

The New Yorker

"It was decided by force.

The New York Times - Sports

They tried attempts to continue by force.

Independent

Britain took them by force in 1833.

The New York Times

"He was driven away by force".

The New Yorker

But by force, no".

The Guardian

By force if necessary.

The Guardian

What was taken by force must be returned by force".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Hammering is avoided by force-controlled stepping.

CIRP Annals

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "by force", ensure the context clearly indicates what kind of force is being used (e.g., military force, physical force, legal force).

Common error

Do not use "by force" when a more precise term would better convey the specific method of compulsion. Using a term like "through coercion" or "by military intervention" can often provide greater clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by force" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the method or means by which an action is carried out. Ludwig highlights its usage in various contexts, demonstrating its versatility in expressing compulsion or power.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by force" is a prepositional phrase indicating that something was achieved through compulsion or power rather than willingly. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, particularly in news, academia, and science. While generally neutral in register, it tends to be more common in formal or objective discussions. When using the phrase, ensure clarity regarding the specific type of force being applied and consider alternatives like "through coercion" or "under duress" for greater precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Through brute force

Implies a crude and overwhelming application of power.

By compulsion

Highlights the lack of free will or choice in the action.

Through coercion

Emphasizes psychological or social pressure rather than physical power.

Under duress

Specifically implies threat or hardship as the compelling factor.

Through the use of power

A more formal and explicit way of saying something was done with authority.

By strength

Focuses on physical power as the means of achieving the outcome.

Against someone's will

Highlights the opposition or resistance of the person being acted upon.

By violent means

Emphasizes the use of physical aggression.

By armed aggression

Highlights the use of weapons and hostile actions.

Through military intervention

Specific to actions involving armed forces.

FAQs

How can I use "by force" in a sentence?

You can use "by force" to indicate that something was achieved through compulsion. For example, "The rebels seized control of the city "by force"" or "The contract was signed "by force"".

What are some alternatives to saying "by force"?

Alternatives include "through coercion", "by compulsion", or "under duress", depending on the specific type of force being implied.

Which is correct, "by force" or "with force"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "By force" indicates the means by which something is accomplished, while "with force" describes the manner in which an action is performed. For example, "The door was opened "by force"" versus "He pushed the door open "with force"".

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "by force"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize that something was achieved against someone's will or through the application of power, whether physical, military, or otherwise. Avoid using it when describing actions performed skillfully or powerfully, where "with force" might be more suitable.