by force of will

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by force of will" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe achieving something through determination and mental strength, often against obstacles or challenges. Example: "She managed to complete the marathon by force of will, despite the pain in her legs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

George was also a strong, blunt personality used to winning arguments by force of will, but the more self-controlled Lenore was unintimidated and willing to push back against him.

Wikipedia

Now she wrestles it by force of will.

The Guardian - Music

Talbot said his success came by force of will.

The New York Times - Sports

Ferguson masked the issue by force of will and personality, so the argument goes.

Independent

Once she got out, she looked back only by force of will.

The New York Times - Books

I look at the Europeans and Japanese who can do it faster by force of will.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

They tended to believe that individuals are the captains of their own destiny and should be able to overcome their problems by force of personal will.

The New York Times - Magazine

His voice still has a hooded, covered, slightly burred quality that can be dusky and mysterious, making it sound as if the tone were being drawn out by force of masculine will.

The New York Times - Arts

Yet by force of judicial will, Field pulled it right into the mainstream.

Huffington Post

"The politicians and the clergymen think they can make everything change by sheer force of will, by spontaneous generation," Pedro Juan says near the end of this novel.

The New York Times - Books

Brasher drove the project through by sheer force of will, overcoming the doubts expressed by police, health officials and bureaucrats.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "by force of will" to emphasize the significant effort and mental fortitude required to overcome a challenge or achieve a goal.

Common error

Avoid using "by force of will" in sentences where the agent performing the action is unclear or passive. Ensure the subject actively demonstrates the willpower being described.

Linguistic Context

By force of will functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe how an action is performed. As Ludwig AI confirms, it emphasizes the effort and determination involved. The phrase indicates that the action is not easily achieved and requires significant mental strength.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by force of will" is a grammatically sound and relatively common prepositional phrase that highlights the significance of determination and mental fortitude in achieving a goal. As affirmed by Ludwig AI, it functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs to convey the manner in which an action is performed. Primarily found in news and media contexts, the phrase signifies that accomplishments are the result of significant effort and resilience. While alternatives like ""through sheer willpower"" and ""by sheer determination"" exist, "by force of will" offers a distinct emphasis on the power of internal drive. To ensure clarity and impact, it’s crucial to use the phrase in active constructions where the subject demonstrably exerts their willpower.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

through sheer willpower

Emphasizes the mental strength and determination as the primary driving force.

by sheer determination

Highlights the firmness of purpose and resolve in achieving a goal.

through strength of character

Focuses on the inherent moral qualities that enable someone to overcome challenges.

through sheer grit

Emphasizes the combination of courage and resolve.

by dint of effort

Highlights the hard work and exertion involved in achieving something.

through unwavering resolve

Stresses the steadfast and unchanging nature of one's determination.

by determined effort

Emphasizes a conscious and resolute application of energy.

through personal agency

Highlights the capacity of an individual to act independently and make their own free choices.

by strength of conviction

Focuses on the power of firmly held beliefs in achieving a goal.

by resolute action

Emphasizes the decisive and determined nature of the actions taken.

FAQs

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

You can use "by force of will" to describe someone overcoming obstacles or achieving goals through their strong determination and mental strength. For example, "She completed the marathon "by force of will" despite the pain."

What are some alternatives to "by force of will"?

Alternatives to "by force of will" include "through sheer willpower", "by sheer determination", or "through unwavering resolve" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "by force of will and determination"?

While "will" and "determination" are similar, using both can emphasize the combined mental and emotional effort. However, consider if the sentence is stronger with just ""by force of will"".

Can "by force of will" be used to describe negative actions?

Yes, although less common, "by force of will" can describe someone stubbornly pursuing a negative outcome. Context is crucial to determine if the phrase is used positively or negatively.