combined forces

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "combined forces" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the collaboration or partnership of different groups or entities working together towards a common goal. Example: "The two organizations decided to combine forces to tackle the environmental crisis more effectively."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Attackers use the advantages of combined forces.

The New York Times

They have combined forces with nonlabor groups like MoveOn.org.

The New York Times

The two laboratories combined forces and, with assistance from the NCI, pursued the isolation.

Harvard University

These three committees combined forces to finance a comprehensive questionnaire addressed to the engineering alumni.

Columbia University

Drug makers have often combined forces to develop and market single drugs.

The New York Times

In the summer of 2006, their combined forces ousted the predatory warlords that had controlled Mogadishu.

The New York Times

It wasn't the first time father and daughter had combined forces on the social front.

The New York Times - Style

It was once believed that Sirius combined forces with the sun to create midsummer's intense heat.

The New York Times

He himself furnished 100 ships and was chosen commander in chief of the combined forces.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Their combined forces twice defeated Antony, who was besieging Brutus Albinus at Mutina (present-day Modena).

Encyclopedia Britannica

He says that in 2012 these combined forces may well spend more than the Republican Party on electoral activities.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "combined forces", ensure the context clearly defines which entities are combining and what their shared objective is. Specificity enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "combined forces" in overly casual or informal settings. Simpler phrases like "teamed up" or "worked together" may be more appropriate and natural in everyday conversations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "combined forces" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object in a sentence. It denotes a group resulting from the unification of two or more distinct entities. Ludwig AI confirms its valid usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

16%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Science

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "combined forces" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that refers to the union of multiple entities for a common purpose. Ludwig confirms its validity and wide application. While suitable for formal and neutral contexts like news reports and academic papers, it should be used sparingly in casual settings. Consider alternatives like "joint efforts" or "teamed up" depending on the situation. When employing "combined forces", ensure clarity by specifying the entities involved and their shared goal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

joint efforts

Focuses on the collaborative aspect of working together, highlighting shared endeavors.

allied forces

Implies a formal alliance, often in a military or strategic context.

unified forces

Emphasizes the integration and cohesion of different elements into a single entity.

coordinated efforts

Highlights the organized and synchronized nature of the collaboration.

collaborative efforts

Stresses the cooperative and participatory aspect of the joint undertaking.

merged forces

Suggests a more complete integration, where separate entities become one.

teamed up

An informal way of saying joined forces, often used in less formal contexts.

pooled resources

Focuses on the sharing of resources and capabilities for a common goal.

collective power

Highlights the increased strength and influence resulting from the union.

integrated resources

Emphasizes the way different resources are integrated for a better outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "combined forces" in a sentence?

Use "combined forces" to describe situations where two or more groups, entities, or individuals unite to achieve a common goal. For example, "The "allied forces" launched a successful campaign."

What are some alternatives to "combined forces"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "joint efforts", "unified forces", or "collaborative efforts".

In what situations is "combined forces" most appropriate?

"Combined forces" is suitable for formal writing and discussions where you want to emphasize the strategic alliance and unified strength of multiple entities. It's often used in military, political, or business contexts.

Is there a difference between "joint forces" and "combined forces"?

While similar, "joint forces" often implies a more structured and formalized collaboration, especially in military contexts. "Combined forces" can be used more broadly to describe any situation where different entities unite for a purpose.