do more than

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "do more than" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize that someone or something has done more than the expected or normal amount or type of something. For example, "The new CEO has done more than just lead the company - she has mobilized investors to give the business a huge boost."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Some do more than roll eyeballs.

The New York Times - Food

Some do more than others.

The New Yorker

It can sometimes do more than that.

The New Yorker

But they do more than that.

The New York Times - Books

It will do more than that.

The Economist

Indeed, he would do "more than that".

The New Yorker

Profile switchers do more than offer solidarity.

The New Yorker

Many teachers do more than that.

The Economist

Her enemies do more than just talk.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Do more than one thing.

WikiHow

Donors do more than just provide funding.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "do more than", ensure the sentence clearly articulates what the 'more' entails to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "do more than" when the additional action or quality is insignificant or unclear. Ensure the 'more' is substantial and adds meaningful value to the sentence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "do more than" functions as a comparative verb phrase, indicating that an action or state surpasses a certain level or expectation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and versatile.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Academia

23%

Science

13%

Less common in

Wiki

12%

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "do more than" is a versatile and grammatically correct expression used to emphasize exceeding expectations or going beyond a basic action or state. As Ludwig AI points out, its neutral register allows for broad applicability across diverse contexts, including news, academic writing, and scientific discourse.

With a very common frequency, its effectiveness lies in clearly defining what constitutes 'more' to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "exceed expectations" or "go above and beyond" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Ultimately, "do more than" serves as a powerful tool to highlight superior qualities and actions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

go above and beyond

Implies exceeding what is expected or required in a more pronounced way.

exceed expectations

Focuses specifically on surpassing anticipated outcomes or performance.

surpass expectations

Similar to 'exceed expectations' but can imply a greater degree of surpassing.

go the extra mile

Suggests putting in additional effort to achieve a goal.

go further than

Indicates progressing or achieving something to a greater extent.

outperform

Emphasizes achieving better results compared to a standard or another entity.

excel

Highlights exceptional performance or skill.

rise above

Suggests overcoming limitations or challenges to achieve something greater.

extend beyond

Implies surpassing a certain boundary or limit.

transcend

Implies going beyond the limits of something.

FAQs

How can I use "do more than" in a sentence?

Use "do more than" to highlight actions or qualities that exceed basic expectations. For example, "The company needs to "do more than" offer discounts; it needs to innovate".

What's a good alternative to "do more than"?

Depending on the context, consider alternatives such as "exceed expectations", "go above and beyond", or "surpass expectations".

Is it always necessary to specify what is being done "more than"?

While not always grammatically required, specifying the 'more than' provides clarity and impact. Vague uses of "do more than" can weaken your message.

What is the difference between "do more than" and "go above and beyond"?

"Do more than" simply implies exceeding a certain level or action, while "go above and beyond" suggests a more significant and noticeable effort beyond what is expected.