certain clout

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "certain clout" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a specific level of influence or power that someone possesses in a particular context. Example: "With her extensive network and experience in the industry, she has certain clout when it comes to negotiating deals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

But people do: there is, it seems, a certain clout that emanates from having no clout.

The New York Times

Nall's nearly twenty-year tenure as Adams County sheriff gives him a certain clout, which other sheriffs can't match.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

As a Republican, Mr. Schwarzenegger arrived in Washington with a certain degree of clout.

The New York Times

In some cases, that may be the result of the clout certain lawmakers have over how much money an agency receives.

The New York Times

Backhouse, who was fluent in Mandarin, Manchurian, Mongolian and Japanese, had a certain amount of clout — and it was almost impossible for his readers to verify his claims.

The New York Times - Books

Cameron's refusal to contemplate withdrawal from the EU weakens his hand, but our £9bn membership sub gives a certain amount of clout.

The Guardian - Opinion

Tanganyika produces 23,000 barrels a day, one-sixth of Addax's current production.Before the Addax deal closes, Sinopec will need the approval of China's government (almost certain, given its clout) and of Addax's shareholders who, based on the large premium it offered to the share price, have little to complain about.

The Economist

If you say you're an All-Star there is a certain amount of clout that comes along with it, correct?" Correct, mostly — there were only eighty-four — but point taken: being ninety-second in the world, in anything, ain't bad).

The New Yorker

The Toshiba name also offers a certain level of clout for enterprise customers who may be wary about buying from startups that have only been around for a few years.

TechCrunch

He carried a certain amount of clout ― physically too, it seems.

Huffington Post

So the drive to create more multinationals in Asia and increase its global corporate clout is certain to continue.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "certain clout" when you want to express that someone or something has a notable, but perhaps not overwhelming, amount of influence or power in a specific context.

Common error

Avoid using "certain clout" if you want to emphasize immense or absolute power. Consider stronger terms like "unquestionable authority" or "dominant influence" in such cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "certain clout" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. According to Ludwig, it describes a specific degree of influence or power that someone or something possesses. Examples in Ludwig showcase its use in describing political, social, and economic influence.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "certain clout" denotes a notable degree of influence or power, as validated by Ludwig AI. While grammatically correct and understandable, its usage is relatively uncommon, primarily appearing in news and media contexts. Ludwig's analysis suggests the phrase serves to inform about specific influence levels, with a register leaning towards professional. When employing this phrase, consider whether the context aligns with conveying a tangible but not absolute degree of authority; otherwise, alternatives like "some influence" or "a degree of power" might be more fitting.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

some influence

Emphasizes a limited but present degree of influence, suggesting less impact than "certain clout".

a degree of power

Focuses on the aspect of power rather than general influence, implying a more direct control.

a level of authority

Highlights the formal or recognized authority someone possesses, differing from informal clout.

some weight

Suggests that someone's opinion or position carries importance or significance.

a particular sway

Implies a specific type of influence or persuasive power.

a specific leverage

Highlights using something to gain an advantage.

noticeable impact

Conveys a degree of consequence or effect, rather than direct influence.

a defined presence

Indicates recognition and importance.

some standing

Expresses a established reputation.

a specific pull

Focuses on the ability to exert influence in a particular direction or situation.

FAQs

How can I use "certain clout" in a sentence?

You can use "certain clout" to describe someone or something that holds a notable degree of influence or power within a specific domain. For instance, "As a senior partner, she carries "certain clout" in the firm's strategic decisions."

What are some alternatives to "certain clout"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases such as "some influence", "a degree of power", or "a level of authority" as alternatives to "certain clout".

Is "certain clout" formal or informal?

"Certain clout" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although it is more frequently found in news and media sources. Its appropriateness depends on the specific audience and purpose of your writing.

What does "certain clout" imply about the level of influence?

"Certain clout" implies a noticeable and significant level of influence or power, but it does not suggest absolute or unlimited authority. It suggests that the influence is specific and defined within a particular sphere.