Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
drag on yields
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "drag on yields" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It may be intended to refer to the prolonged effects or results of something, but the phrasing is awkward and unclear. Example: "The negotiations seemed to drag on yields that were less favorable than expected."
⚠ May contain grammatical issues
News & Media
Science
Wiki
Alternative expressions(1)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
1 human-written examples
In Africa in particular, these and other factors such as pest control, storage and distribution are a bigger drag on yields than a shortage of water.Raising yields does not always involve greater water consumption, especially when farms are inefficient.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
59 human-written examples
But the dispute is scratching at bigger concerns about costly legal processes that have dragged on, yielded no convictions and put a lot of focus on the benefits at the detention facilities, which some critics mock as the Hague Hilton.
News & Media
The academic-style discourse would drag on for hours without producing a single concrete conclusion; it would yield only increasingly esoteric questions".
News & Media
And did it drag on?
News & Media
It might drag on till July.
News & Media
So fighting could drag on for months.
News & Media
Recounts may drag on for days.
News & Media
Settlement discussions may drag on for years.
News & Media
The debate could drag on for weeks.
News & Media
"It did drag on," Redknapp said.
News & Media
Cases like these can drag on for many years.
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Avoid using the phrase “drag on yields” in formal writing. Opt for more common and easily understandable alternatives like “reduce crop productivity” or specify the exact factors influencing yields for clarity.
Common error
The phrase “drag on yields” is not a standard expression. Using it might confuse your audience. It's better to be specific about what factors negatively affect crop production or use a more common term.
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
2.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "drag on yields" functions as a noun phrase that is intended to describe factors that negatively impact agricultural output. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrasing is somewhat awkward and lacks clarity. A more precise noun phrase may be more effective to convey this meaning.
Frequent in
News & Media
33%
Science
33%
Wiki
33%
Less common in
Formal & Business
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Social Media
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, while the phrase "drag on yields" attempts to describe factors negatively affecting agricultural production, Ludwig AI indicates that it is not a standard or particularly clear English expression. Its grammatical status is considered incorrect, and its usage is rare. For improved clarity and impact, alternative phrases such as "reduce crop productivity" or "inhibit agricultural output" are recommended. When writing, always prioritize precision and widely understood language, especially in professional or formal settings.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
reduce crop productivity
Focuses on the overall outcome of decreased yield, highlighting the impact on productivity.
inhibit agricultural output
Emphasizes the hindrance of farm produce, suggesting a direct impediment to production.
decrease harvestable quantity
Specific to the measurable yield, this phrase points to a lower amount of crops that can be harvested.
diminish agricultural returns
Broader perspective relating to the overall profitability and value derived from farming.
lower farming efficiency
Points to inefficiencies in agricultural practices that lead to reduced output.
constrain crop development
Highlights factors that limit or restrict the growth and maturation of crops.
depress field performance
Focuses on how well crops perform in the field, suggesting subpar results.
impair agricultural growth
Refers to the hindering of the expansion and progress of farming practices.
sabotage crop potential
Implies intentional or unintentional undermining of the inherent capacity of crops to yield.
weaken harvest prospects
Indicates an uncertain or reduced likelihood of a successful and abundant harvest.
FAQs
What does "drag on yields" mean?
The phrase "drag on yields" is not a standard English expression. It is intended to describe factors that negatively affect crop production. It's recommended to use clearer, more common phrases.
What can I say instead of "drag on yields"?
You can use alternatives like "reduce crop productivity", "inhibit agricultural output" or "decrease harvestable quantity" depending on the context.
Is "drag on yields" grammatically correct?
Ludwig AI considers the phrase "drag on yields" to be awkward and unclear. It's advisable to use more precise and common expressions to convey your intended meaning.
How can I improve clarity when discussing factors affecting agricultural production?
Instead of using potentially ambiguous phrases like "drag on yields", specify the factors you're referring to, such as “pest control issues negatively affect yields” or “storage problems reduce crop productivity”.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
2.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested