channelize

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "channelize" is correct and usable in written English, though it is somewhat informal and less common than alternatives.
You can use it when referring to directing or guiding something, such as thoughts, efforts, or resources, towards a specific purpose or goal. Example: "We need to channelize our efforts into improving customer service to enhance client satisfaction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Closer to home, Pranab Mukherjee chose to play it safe in his first Diwali greeting as president, saying in a written statement that we should "channelize our energies towards vanquishing want and suffering and strive hard for collective growth".

The New York Times

"Roads and alleys channelize your movements, and they give a great field of fire for the enemy".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

Returning water may, for example, be channelized by the presence or form of obstacles on the bottom into rip currents of significant velocity but quite narrow lateral dimension.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Drainage occurs through a network of streams, some channelized and some more or less natural.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Streams were being channelized to drain swamps.

The New Yorker

This is "a big resource that needs to be channelized," he said.

The New York Times

In the 1930s, the 50-mile river was channelized — turned into little more than a concrete drainage ditch — to protect surrounding neighborhoods from flooding.

The New York Times

In Japan, where the rivers have one of the highest proportions of dams in the world and virtually all have been channelized in one way or another, some saw a great need for restoration.

The New York Times

As waterways linking the port to the industrial communities of the Rhine were deepened and channelized, German automobiles and machinery began flowing through Rotterdam on the way to the rest of the planet.

The New York Times

Similarly, they argue, it is not the corps but President Bush and Senator Christopher Bond of Missouri who have blocked a long-awaited plan to protect endangered species by restoring seasonal water flows to the Missouri River -- a once-flourishing waterway that has been channelized into a muddy ditch to serve a barge industry of trivial economic significance.

The New York Times

Here in Kushiro, the river was channelized when the priority was to develop the area economically.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "channelize", ensure the context clearly indicates the direction or purpose towards which resources or efforts are being directed. Be specific about what is being channeled and what the intended outcome is.

Common error

Avoid using "channelize" in very informal or casual conversations. Opt for simpler alternatives like "focus" or "direct" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "channelize" is as a transitive verb. It describes the action of directing something, such as energy, resources, or efforts, towards a specific purpose or pathway, as demonstrated in the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Encyclopedias

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "channelize" is a grammatically correct verb that means to direct or guide something towards a specific purpose. While it is usable in written English and can be helpful in situations to suggest a direction or focus. However, Ludwig AI advises that it is less common than alternatives like "direct" or "focus", maintaining a neutral register appropriate for news and informative writing. When writing, remember to ensure the context clearly states what you are "channelizing" and its intended outcome.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Direct

This alternative implies a more straightforward approach to guiding or managing something.

Focus

This suggests a concentration of effort or attention on a specific point or objective.

Guide

This alternative means leading or showing the way towards a particular goal or outcome.

Steer

This suggests controlling the course or direction of something, often with precision.

Harness

This means to control and make use of natural resources, especially to produce energy.

Concentrate

This alternative implies gathering or focusing resources in a particular area.

Funnel

This suggests a process of narrowing or directing something into a specific channel or outlet.

Orient

This implies adjusting or positioning something in relation to a specific point or direction.

Mobilize

This suggests organizing or preparing resources for action towards a specific purpose.

Converge

This implies causing something to come together or move towards a single point or focus.

FAQs

How can I use "channelize" in a sentence?

You can use "channelize" to describe directing energy or resources towards a specific goal. For example, "We need to channelize our efforts into improving customer service." You can also use "direct" or "focus" as alternatives.

What's the difference between "channelize" and "direct"?

"Channelize" often implies creating or using a specific pathway or method to guide something, while "direct" is a more general term for guiding or managing.

What can I say instead of "channelize"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "focus", "direct", or "guide".

Is "channelize" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "channelize" can be appropriate for formal writing, particularly in contexts related to resource management, engineering, or strategic planning. However, consider the audience and context to ensure it aligns with the desired tone.